Senator Ashiru’s Corruption Remarks Spark Debate on NDLEA’s Integrity
Abuja, Nigeria – Barrister Temi Nuruddin Salami, representing the Initiative for Positive Growth and Collective Development (IPAD), has called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to seriously address allegations of internal corruption. This comes amidst rising tensions following controversial remarks by Kwara South Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru.
Senator Ashiru recently described the NDLEA as “the most corrupt and compromised” organisation in Nigeria, a statement made during discussions on a Bill aimed at establishing the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation. His remarks have ignited a nationwide debate over the agency’s integrity.
The NDLEA quickly dismissed the senator’s comments, attributing them to personal vendetta rather than concerns for the country’s drug crisis. In a swift rebuttal, the agency labelled the allegations as unfounded and an attempt to tarnish its image.
However, Barrister Salami criticised the agency’s response, calling it “disappointing” and a violation of constitutional principles. He acknowledged the NDLEA’s efforts under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Muhammad Buba Marwa (Rtd) in curbing drug abuse but argued that corruption within the agency remains an open secret.
“It is common knowledge that there are bad eggs in the agency,” Salami stated, highlighting reports of NDLEA officers allegedly taking bribes to release offenders and reselling confiscated drugs. He urged the NDLEA to “look inward” and address these issues rather than deflecting criticism.
Salami further emphasised the need for the agency to adopt a more reformative approach. “The tongue-lashing approach adopted by the NDLEA is not only disappointing but a gross disrespect to the Constitution,” he noted, stressing that criticism of the agency is legitimate, regardless of its source.
Advocating for the proposed National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, Salami urged the NDLEA to embrace constructive feedback and focus on its core mandate of addressing the pervasive drug issue in Nigeria. “What they ought to do is to look inward and speak to the issues,” he concluded.
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