The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has secured a major court victory after the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt ordered the interim forfeiture of 17 containers filled with illicit opioids worth over ₦33.6 billion.
Officials intercepted the containers at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex, Onne, Rivers State. The seizures took place on multiple dates between April and September 2025.
NDLEA said the containers held about 19.6 million pills of Tramadol, Tafrodol, Tapentadol, and Carisoprodol. They also contained 2.49 million bottles of Codeine Syrup.
The total street value of the drugs stood at ₦33,691,200,000.
Court Order in Port Harcourt
Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed of the Federal High Court issued the forfeiture order. The ruling followed an ex parte application filed by the NDLEA in February 2026.
The court ordered that the 17 containers, weighing about 365,657kg, be forfeited to the Federal Government. It also placed the items under NDLEA custody pending final determination of the case.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) described the ruling as a major blow to drug cartels. He said the move cuts off funds used for crime and drug abuse.
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He hailed the judiciary for the swift order and the NDLEA officers at the Onne Port Command for detecting the concealed drugs.
The agency also thanked the Nigeria Customs Service and other port stakeholders for their support during the operation.
Marwa added that international partners provided intelligence that strengthened the interception.
He restated NDLEA’s commitment to dismantling drug networks across the country.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.