NDLEA auctions forfeited drug traffickers’ properties in Lagos, Kano, others

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has held a public auction of forfeited houses, which were either acquired through proceeds of drug trafficking or used as an instrumentality of committing the crime.

The exercise was held at the NDLEA’s national headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), said the exercise forms part of the agency’s strategic efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks by depriving offenders both liberty and illicit wealth in strict compliance with legal frameworks and due process.

Marwa, who was represented by the NDLEA Secretary, Shadrack Haruna, reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to pursue drug offenders not only through prosecution but also by targeting all assets acquired through proceeds of crime.

“This auction is part of our broader commitment to transparency and justice. Beyond prosecuting drug offenders, we are committed to ensuring that the financial incentives that drive these crimes are neutralised through legal forfeiture. This serves as both punishment and deterrence. When drug traffickers know they stand to lose everything, including their ill-gotten assets, it sends a stronger message than imprisonment alone,” he said.

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Also speaking, Umar Yakubu of the Centre for Transparency and Integrity Watch commended the NDLEA for conducting a process that was “open, credible, and compliant with international best practices.”

Yakubu stated that the level of transparency observed was commendable and reflective of a strong institutional culture that prioritises public accountability.

He also urged the NDLEA to amplify such efforts as a public education tool to underscore the consequences of drug crimes.

The auction involved forfeited eight properties across Lagos, Kano, Ondo, and Ogun States.

According to the anti-drug agency, two of the houses located in Lekki and Ikorodu areas of Lagos were dropped from the process due to notices of appeal received after the processes had begun.

Six other properties were auctioned to pre-qualified bidders, with only two sold at over N139 million following successful bids above their reserved prices. Others either failed to receive any bids or attracted offers below the benchmark.

The Star