In a significant victory for Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking, four notorious drug kingpins have been sentenced to a combined 28 years in prison following the country’s largest-ever cocaine bust. The Federal High Court in Lagos, under the guidance of Justice Yellim Bogoro, handed down the sentences after a massive drug operation that led to the seizure of 2.1 tons of cocaine in Ikorodu, Lagos.
The convicted individuals, who played key roles in a major drug syndicate, include:
Soji Jubril Oke (71) – Sentenced to 5 years in prison with hard labour.
Wasiu Akinade (55) – Sentenced to 3 years in prison with hard labour.
Emmanuel Arinze Chukwu (67) – Sentenced to 16 years in prison.
Kelvin Christopher Smith (44, Jamaican) – Sentenced to 4 years in prison with hard labour.
Alongside their prison sentences, the court also ordered the confiscation of several valuable assets linked to the criminals. These include:
A Toyota Tacoma SUV
$50,000 USD
₦55,099,509.50
Additional amounts of ₦9,003,168.06 and ₦3,052,295.20
In a further blow to the criminals, the court ordered the seizure of two luxurious properties, believed to be purchased with proceeds from their illicit activities:
House Number 6 Olokunola Street, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu
House Number J9, Road 3, Close 1, Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos
The breakthrough came on September 18, 2022, when NDLEA operatives raided a property in Ikorodu, uncovering 2,139.55 kg of cocaine. Following their arrest, the convicts were found to have hidden out in various locations across Lagos.
Justice Bogoro emphasized that the properties and wealth acquired from drug trafficking would be sold, with the proceeds going to the Nigerian government. This ruling marks a turning point in the battle against drug syndicates, sending a clear message that the Nigerian government is committed to dismantling these criminal organizations and reclaiming their ill-gotten wealth.
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman of the NDLEA, praised the efforts of the investigation and prosecution teams, calling the convictions and asset seizures a historic achievement. He warned drug traffickers, saying, “They will face not only prison time but the loss of their criminal wealth and properties.”
This case serves as a powerful reminder of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to tackling the drug trade and securing a brighter, safer future for its citizens.
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