In a historic win against drug trafficking in Nigeria, four drug lords have been sentenced to a combined 28 years in prison for smuggling over 2.1 tons of cocaine. The operation, carried out by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), uncovered the cocaine in Ikorodu, Lagos, making it the largest seizure in Nigeria’s history.
The convicted individuals—Soji Jubril Oke (71), Emmanuel Arinze Chukwu (67), Wasiu Akinade (55), and Kelvin Christopher Smith (44), a Jamaican—were arrested during an NDLEA raid in September 2022. The operation targeted a house in Solebo Estate, Ikorodu, and was followed by arrests at various hotels and hideouts across Lagos.
Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, handed down the sentences:
- Kelvin Smith (Jamaican): 4 years with hard labor.
- Emmanuel Chukwu: 16 years in total.
- Soji Oke: 5 years with hard labor.
- Wasiu Akinade: 3 years with hard labor.
While most convicts were given options to pay fines, one must serve their full sentence without such an option.
Additionally, the court ordered the forfeiture of properties and assets linked to the cartel, including:
- A Toyota Tacoma SUV.
- $50,000 cash.
- Over ₦55 million and ₦9 million in separate bank accounts.
- Two houses in Victoria Garden City (VGC).
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), hailed the case as a landmark victory. He noted that drug cartels would not only face imprisonment but also lose all assets acquired through illicit means.
The agency reiterated its commitment to combating drug trafficking and warned criminals that justice would be served.
This case sends a clear signal to drug cartels: their illegal activities will not only lead to imprisonment but also the loss of their wealth and properties. The NDLEA’s diligent efforts ensure that the fight against drug trafficking remains strong in Nigeria.
