The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has addressed recent accusations of corruption made by Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru (Kwara South), labeling them as a personal vendetta rather than a genuine national concern.
During a press briefing at its National Headquarters in Abuja, the NDLEA responded to Senator Ashiru’s claims made in a plenary session on October 15, 2024, where he alleged that the agency was “corrupt and compromised.”
Femi Babafemi, the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, stated that the senator’s remarks were defamatory and unfounded. He noted that the agency had awaited a clarification from Ashiru, but in light of his silence, felt compelled to respond.
Babafemi highlighted two significant raids linked to Senator Ashiru that illustrate the agency’s concerns. The first raid occurred at the senator’s residence in Ilorin in February 2024, where illicit substances were found. The second took place in Offa in 2023, leading to the arrest of individuals associated with Ashiru for drug trafficking.
The NDLEA dismissed the senator’s claims of corruption, pointing to its international recognition and support from global organizations, including the UK and US governments, for its efforts in combating drug abuse and trafficking.
In conclusion, the NDLEA asserted that Ashiru’s statements represent an abuse of his legislative position and reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling illicit drug networks, including those associated with the senator. The agency vowed to continue its work despite politically motivated attacks.