Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Federal Government is set to abolish the option of fines for convicted drug traffickers, a move the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says will close a major legal loophole that has allowed offenders to pay their way out of prison and return to the illicit drug trade. NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi disclosed this on Monday, June 29, 2026, during an appearance on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily, where he also revealed that the agency currently records a conviction rate of nearly 90 per cent.
Babafemi, the agency's Director of Media and Advocacy, praised the judiciary for its strong partnership in prosecuting drug offenders, noting that the NDLEA enjoys a conviction rate of almost 90 per cent, with many cases ending without appeals because suspects are often arrested with overwhelming evidence. “We've had a very good relationship with the judiciary because when you look at our conviction rate, it's almost 90 per cent. In our own case, you hardly find any appeal because we get offenders with the exhibits right there,” he said.
However, Babafemi identified the option of fines as a significant loophole that weakens the fight against drug-related crimes. He explained that some convicted traffickers exploit the provision by paying fines ranging from millions of naira to avoid custodial sentences. “There is a small nag there and that is the issue of the option of fine, and we are very grateful that the Federal Government through the office of Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice is addressing that,” Babafemi stated.
“I think there is an executive bill which will soon get to the national assembly to amend the law so that there will be no that option of fine. Because they know that there is a loophole for an option of fine, the judge gives an option of fine, then you find them paying there whether 5 million, 10 million, 20 million,” he added.
The proposed amendment, being championed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, would eliminate the fine option and replace it with mandatory prison terms ranging from 15 to 25 years for convicted drug traffickers. Babafemi argued that the tougher penalties would serve as a stronger deterrent, as offenders would not only lose their freedom but also forfeit assets linked to their criminal activities. “When that law is passed then there will be nothing like that, you will have probably a minimum of 15 then 25 years in prison so that you know that when you are arrested you are going to jail and then you lose everything,” he said.
The NDLEA spokesman described the global drug problem as a hydra-headed monster but said the agency has remained relentless in its campaign against drug trafficking, recording significant successes. He noted that sustained crackdowns have reduced the availability of illicit substances, driving up street prices and making access more difficult. According to Babafemi, even drug users have acknowledged the impact of the agency's operations. “If you follow some of the conversations online, you will hear young people complaining, ‘Why are you people always seizing these things? Now because of what you are doing, a gram of cana has moved from ₦5,000 to ₦35,000,’” he said.
Babafemi further disclosed that recent investigations have uncovered billions of naira in the bank accounts of suspected traffickers. These funds have been frozen, with ongoing efforts to secure their forfeiture to the Federal Government. He added that Nigeria has become increasingly hostile terrain for drug traffickers, forcing many to relocate abroad. However, the NDLEA continues to collaborate with international counterparts to track fugitives and bring them to justice. By closing legal loopholes and intensifying enforcement, the Federal Government and NDLEA aim to send a clear message: drug trafficking will no longer be treated as a business risk but as a crime with severe and unavoidable consequences.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments