The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has accused Senator Oyelola Ashiru, representing Kwara South, of using his home in Ilorin as a storage site for illicit drugs. The agency claims that his recent criticisms of them stem from personal grievances rather than genuine concerns for national interest. During a press briefing in Abuja, the NDLEA revealed that some of Ashiru’s aides were arrested during a raid on his property, and one of them has already been sentenced for drug-related offenses.
The senator responded by challenging the NDLEA to prosecute any individuals linked to his residence, dismissing their allegations as unfounded. His spokesperson emphasized that Ashiru has been vocal about the agency’s supposed corruption, suggesting that this could explain the NDLEA’s accusations against him. They also clarified that Ashiru did not attempt to influence the agency regarding the case of a specific individual, Tosin Odepidian, whose name was mentioned in the NDLEA’s claims.
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, the NDLEA’s Chairman, addressed the media to refute Ashiru’s allegations and assert that the agency is committed to transparency. He expressed disappointment that the senator did not clarify his statements following their initial discussion. Marwa indicated that credible intelligence had led to a raid on Ashiru’s residence earlier this year, where drugs were reportedly recovered, and two of his aides were arrested.
The NDLEA has faced scrutiny in light of these accusations but maintains that it has received recognition both domestically and internationally for its efforts in combatting drug trafficking. Marwa asserted that the agency remains focused on its mission and will not be deterred by Ashiru’s criticisms, which they view as motivated by personal vendetta rather than public interest. He concluded by emphasizing the NDLEA’s commitment to reform and its ongoing initiatives to dismantle drug networks, including those allegedly linked to the senator.
Written By: Blossom kugbere.