The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has revealed that the Federal Government is taking steps to eliminate the option of fines for convicted drug traffickers, a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s fight against illicit drug trafficking and ensuring stiffer penalties for offenders.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi said the agency continues to enjoy strong collaboration with the judiciary, recording a conviction rate of nearly 90 per cent in drug-related cases.
Despite the high conviction rate, Babafemi identified the provision allowing convicted drug traffickers to pay fines instead of serving prison terms as a significant loophole that undermines the country’s anti-drug campaign.
According to him, the Federal Government, through the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, is already addressing the issue with an executive bill expected to be forwarded to the National Assembly.
Babafemi explained that the proposed amendment to the NDLEA Act seeks to remove the fine option entirely, ensuring that convicted traffickers serve mandatory prison sentences rather than paying monetary penalties.
He noted that under the current law, some convicted traffickers are able to pay fines ranging from ₦5 million to ₦20 million, allowing them to avoid lengthy jail terms.
The NDLEA spokesman expressed optimism that once the amendment is passed into law, convicted drug traffickers could face mandatory prison sentences of between 15 and 25 years, a development he believes will serve as a stronger deterrent and reinforce Nigeria’s resolve to combat drug trafficking.
He stressed that the proposed reform is intended to close existing legal loopholes, discourage drug-related crimes, and strengthen the nation’s criminal justice system.
