NDLEA auctions forfeited properties tied to drug crimes

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has carried out a public auction of properties forfeited by convicted drug traffickers.

The houses, either acquired through proceeds of drug-related crimes or directly used in trafficking operations, were sold in a transparent process aimed at dismantling criminal drug networks.

Speaking at the event, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Brigadier-General Mohamed Marwa (rtd.), represented by the agency’s Secretary, Mr. Shadrack Haruna, said the exercise reflects the agency’s commitment to hitting offenders where it hurts most—their illicit wealth.

“This public auction is not just a legal procedure; it is a strategic move to cripple drug trafficking operations by depriving criminals of both liberty and the assets they acquire through crime,” Marwa said.

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He emphasized that the NDLEA will continue to pursue drug offenders beyond court convictions by seizing and auctioning assets linked to narcotics crimes, in full compliance with due process and relevant legal frameworks.

“This auction is part of our broader commitment to transparency and justice. Beyond prosecuting drug offenders, we are committed to ensuring that the financial incentives that drive these crimes are neutralized through legal forfeiture.

“This serves as both punishment and deterrence. When drug traffickers know they stand to lose everything, including their ill-gotten assets, it sends a stronger message than imprisonment alone,” Marwa said.

NDLEA’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Tuesday said the auction involved forfeited eight properties across Lagos, Kano, Ondo, and Ogun States.

“Two of the houses located in Lekki and Ikorodu areas of Lagos were stepped down from the process due to notices of appeal received after the processes had begun. Six other properties were auctioned to pre-qualified bidders, with only two sold at over N139 million following successful bids above their reserved prices. Others either failed to receive any bids or attracted offers below the benchmark,” Babademi said.

Speaking at the bidding exercise, a representative of the Centre for Transparency and Integrity Watch, Umar Yakubu commended the NDLEA for conducting an open, credible process in compliance with international best practices.

He noted that the level of transparency observed was commendable and reflective of a strong institutional culture that prioritises public accountability.

He further encouraged the agency to amplify such efforts as a public education tool to underscore the consequences of drug crimes.