By Erewunmi Peace

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has commenced the auction of properties forfeited by convicted drug traffickers, marking a significant move in Nigeria’s fight against drug-related crimes. The public auction, held at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, is part of the agency’s ongoing strategy to strip drug criminals of illicit assets and reinforce legal deterrence.

The auction included eight properties located in Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Kano States, all of which were either used in drug trafficking operations or purchased with proceeds from the illegal drug trade. The properties were forfeited following court rulings, in accordance with the Proceeds of Crime Act.

However, only six of the eight properties were auctioned, as two—located in Lekki and Ikorodu, Lagos State—were withdrawn due to pending notices of appeal.

Of the six auctioned, two properties were successfully sold, yielding over ₦139 million. The other four did not attract bids that met the set reserve prices and may be re-auctioned at a later date.

Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/CEO of NDLEA, reiterated the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks through a combination of legal prosecution and asset forfeiture. He emphasized that targeting the economic power of drug syndicates is key to winning the war against illicit drugs.

“This auction is not just about selling property; it’s about sending a clear message that crime does not pay. NDLEA will continue to pursue offenders and ensure that the proceeds of their crimes are confiscated and put to better use,” Marwa stated.

The auction was supervised by the Federal Ministry of Justice and observed by civil society groups, including the Centre for Transparency and Integrity Watch, which praised the process for its transparency and adherence to due process.

The NDLEA says it plans to continue similar forfeiture and auction processes in the future as part of its broader anti-narcotics strategy.