Mi Nurudeen Salam, Esq., Executive Director of the Initiative for Positive Growth and Collective Development (IPAD), has condemned the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its response to Senator Oyelola Ashiru’s criticism, labeling it a reckless attack on legislative immunity.
The controversy erupted when Senator Ashiru referred to the NDLEA as “corrupt and compromised” during a Senate plenary focused on establishing the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Salam argued that the NDLEA’s reaction violated Senator Ashiru’s legislative immunity, as guaranteed by the Constitution. He emphasized that such actions undermine the separation of powers and threaten democratic institutions.
Salam criticized the NDLEA for failing to address allegations of corruption within its ranks, expressing concerns that the agency’s behavior might deter lawmakers from fulfilling their oversight responsibilities due to fears of retaliation.
He stated, “The NDLEA’s counterattack against Senator Lola Isah Ashiru is primitive and a violation of the senator’s immunity in the course of legislative duties. While it is undeniable that the current leadership of the NDLEA is striving to combat drug and substance abuse in Nigeria, there are indeed bad elements within the agency. Regrettably, the senator’s statement reflects the current reality of the NDLEA. Instead of addressing these issues, the NDLEA’s harsh response shows gross disrespect for the Constitution.”