NDLEA Arrests 61-Year-Old Drug Kingpin Alhaja Aishat Feyisara Ajoke Elediye in Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made a significant breakthrough with the arrest of a notorious drug kingpin, Alhaja Aishat Feyisara Ajoke Elediye, known as “Iya Ruka,” on New Year’s Day. The 61-year-old Lagos socialite was captured at her mansion in Okota, Lagos, following the interception of illicit drugs transported by one of her staff members. This marks a major success for NDLEA in their continued efforts to tackle drug trafficking in the country.

How NDLEA Intercepted a Drug Shipment Linked to Alhaja Ajoke

Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA, revealed in a statement that the arrest followed the interception of a white Isuzu truck loaded with drugs. The truck, driven by 41-year-old Abideen Adio, was found carrying 1,540 kilograms of imported cannabis. This shipment was part of a broader investigation, which began with the arrest of Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James, a partner of Mbadiwe, who was caught at a warehouse in Ajao Estate, Ikeja, where he attempted to collect a shipment of 33 parcels of Loud cannabis. The discovery of this shipment led operatives to Alhaja Ajoke’s residence in Okota, where she was apprehended.

Alhaja Ajoke’s Alleged Role in a Massive Drug Cartel

Alhaja Ajoke, who has long been suspected of running a drug cartel, was reportedly a well-known businesswoman in Lagos, dealing in fabrics and shoes imported from China. However, beneath this facade, she allegedly led a massive drug operation. According to Babafemi, she is also recognized as the Iyalaje of Blessing Sisters, a prominent social club in Lagos. Her arrest is seen as a significant blow to the drug trade in the Mushin area, where she is said to have been operating for years.

NDLEA’s Recent Operations: A Nationwide Crackdown on Drug Trafficking

The arrest of Alhaja Ajoke is just one of many recent successes for the NDLEA. The agency has been working tirelessly across Nigeria to combat drug trafficking and abuse. On December 27th, 2024, NDLEA officers arrested a US-trained filmmaker, Emeka Emmanuel Mbadiwe, in connection with a large drug haul at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Additionally, NDLEA operatives recently arrested two individuals in Kwara State who were producing and selling drug-laced cupcakes to students. This nationwide crackdown highlights NDLEA’s commitment to tackling drug trafficking on multiple fronts.

NDLEA’s Ongoing War Against Drug Abuse and Sensitization Efforts

The NDLEA’s continued efforts also extend to educating the public about the dangers of drug abuse. The agency has conducted several sensitization programs across the country, including lectures at schools, places of worship, and markets. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), praised the agency’s operations and the successful arrests, underscoring the importance of both drug supply reduction and demand reduction strategies.

In conclusion, the arrest of Alhaja Aishat Feyisara Ajoke Elediye is a significant development in the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria. The agency’s success in intercepting large drug shipments and making high-profile arrests signals their determination to dismantle powerful drug cartels operating across the country.