News
HURIWA Commends NDLEA’s Relentless Anti-Drug Campaign, Lauds Tinubu’s Support
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has applauded the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its relentless war against drug trafficking and narcotics abuse, describing its efforts under the leadership of Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.) as transformative and decisive. The association also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fully supporting the NDLEA, enabling the agency to achieve remarkable progress in countering the drug menace.
HURIWA noted that the NDLEA, with the strong backing of the federal government, has recorded monumental successes in combating drug cartels, dismantling trafficking networks, and seizing substantial quantities of illicit drugs in recent years. The association pointed to recent operations, including the interception of nearly two tonnes of cannabis, known as “Ghanaian Loud,” at Eleko Beach in Lagos, and the arrest of six foreign nationals involved in the smuggling operation, as examples of the agency’s diligence and efficiency.
“These successes speak to the NDLEA’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding Nigerians from the scourge of hard drugs. Under the charismatic leadership of Brigadier General Buba Marwa, the agency has transformed into a formidable force against narcotics. Marwa’s leadership has not only disrupted drug cartels but has also restored public confidence in the NDLEA’s ability to tackle the drug menace head-on,” HURIWA stated.
The association also highlighted the NDLEA’s strategic focus on capacity building and training for its personnel. It praised the recent collaboration between the agency and the German government, which resulted in a two-week intensive training program for NDLEA officers. This training covered critical areas such as crime scene investigation principles and the use of the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS).
“Training and capacity building are essential in staying ahead of drug traffickers who constantly evolve their methods. The NDLEA’s investment in its workforce ensures that its officers are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to counter even the most sophisticated drug networks. The agency’s collaboration with international partners like the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) exemplifies the proactive approach needed to win this war,” HURIWA emphasized.
HURIWA praised President Tinubu for providing full support to the NDLEA and its leadership. It acknowledged that the president’s backing of the agency demonstrates a clear commitment to a drug-free Nigeria. “President Tinubu’s support for the NDLEA has empowered the agency to excel in its mandate. This administration’s unwavering support is a testament to its determination to address the drug crisis in Nigeria,” the association noted.
Looking ahead to 2025, HURIWA cautioned that drug barons and traffickers would likely adopt new, unconventional methods to counter the NDLEA’s formidable strategies. It expressed confidence, however, in the agency’s ability to adapt and respond to these challenges.
“The year 2025 will be a decisive year in the war against narcotics. Drug cartels are likely to evolve their methods and become more daring in their operations. However, with the charismatic and results-driven leadership of General Marwa, the NDLEA is well-positioned to beat them at their own game. The agency’s track record gives Nigerians hope that no matter how sophisticated the traffickers’ strategies become, the NDLEA will remain one step ahead,” HURIWA asserted.
The association also appealed to the federal government to grant full financial autonomy to the NDLEA. It argued that adequate and consistent funding is critical to sustaining the agency’s operations and ensuring its continued success in the fight against drugs. HURIWA particularly emphasized the need to prevent the infiltration of drug money into Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.
“Drug money has the potential to undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process. To safeguard the 2027 elections from the corrupting influence of narcotics cash, the NDLEA must be empowered with financial autonomy to strengthen its operations. A well-funded NDLEA is essential for ensuring that drug barons do not wield undue influence in our political system,” HURIWA warned.
The association called on all Nigerians to support the NDLEA and its efforts to protect the nation from the harmful effects of drug abuse and trafficking. It also urged state governments, civil society organizations, and international partners to collaborate with the agency in promoting drug prevention and awareness programs at all levels.
HURIWA concluded by reiterating its commendation of the NDLEA and its leadership. “The NDLEA has shown us what is possible with the right leadership, dedication, and support. We salute General Marwa and his team for their outstanding work and urge the federal government to continue backing them in this critical fight. Together, we can build a Nigeria free from the devastating grip of narcotics,” the association stated.
Multiple passengers escaped from a Turkish Airlines (TK) aircraft after an emergency landing at Malta Luqa International Airport (MLA) on Wednesday afternoon (January 1, 2025).
The unscheduled landing occurred when the captain requested clearance due to an ill Moroccan passenger.
According to FlightRadar24 data, Turkish Airlines flight TK619 bound for Marrakesh (RAK) took off from Istanbul (IST) at 8:56 AM UTC.
After being airborne for around two hours, the flight diverted to Malta and landed at 11:02 AM UTC.
The flight was operated by Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered as TC-LCI.
Photo: Nabil Molinari | Flickr
The escape happened while the aircraft remained on the runway, prompting an immediate security response.
Police received notification at 1:45 pm, initiating a comprehensive search operation with Armed Forces of Malta personnel across the airport grounds and surrounding areas.
The Moroccan passenger, whose medical condition triggered the emergency landing, remains under police custody at Mater Dei Hospital.
Authorities continue to search ⁹for the escaped passengers across the airport perimeter.
The incident activated Malta’s airport security protocols, mobilizing law enforcement resources for a coordinated manhunt.
Police maintained an active presence in the vicinity while investigating the circumstances surrounding the unauthorized passenger departure.
● Similar Incidents
In May 2024, seventeen Moroccan passengers attempted to flee Rome’s Fiumicino airport following an emergency landing of a flight from Istanbul to Tangier.
The diversion occurred due to a passenger experiencing a heart attack. After landing, Italian security forces intercepted the group, conducting comprehensive passenger verification before clearing the flight’s continuation to Tangier.
This incident mirrors previous escape attempts by Moroccan passengers during emergency landings across European airports. In July 2022, twenty-eight Moroccan passengers attempted to flee after an emergency landing in Barcelona.
A successful escape occurred in November 2021 at Palma de Mallorca airport when passengers fled from a Casablanca-Istanbul flight.
December 2022 marked another incident at Barcelona’s Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport. A Pegasus Airlines (PC) flight from Casablanca to Istanbul requested an emergency landing for a passenger allegedly simulating labor.
During the medical evacuation, twenty-seven passengers attempted unauthorized exit. Police apprehended thirteen individuals, while fourteen successfully evaded capture and remained unlocated.
The recurring nature of these incidents has prompted enhanced security measures at European airports handling emergency landings. Law enforcement agencies maintain heightened vigilance during medical diversions, particularly on routes connecting North Africa and Turkey.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Labour Party (LP) 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has opened up on a merger deal with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) or any other party.
Peter Obi made this known on Thursday morning during a press conference in Abuja on the state of the nation, stating that no agreement has been established with other parties.
The former Governor of Anambra State called on all lovers of Nigeria in the political space to unite in 2027 and defeat the All Progressives Congress (APC), which he accused of mismanaging the country’s resources.
According to him, the level of corruption in Nigeria remained high, including the cost of governance, which has led to an astronomical increase in public debt under the current administration of President Bola Tinubu of the APC.
Peter Obi maintained that government officials willfully mismanaged public funds in 2024 through incessant foreign travels.
Speaking further, Peter Obi frowned at the insecurity situation in the country, stating that it is unfortunate that Nigerians are dying needlessly due to banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping-for-ransom.
Meanwhile, the NNPP 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed the purported report of reaching an agreement with the opposition presidential candidate of PDP, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi, to share power by alternating terms.
The genius Media nigeria reports that Kwankwaso, in an interview with the BBC, expressed anger over the lies.
He stressed that he was unaware of such a claim but had heard reports that Atiku’s camp had been meeting with regional leaders, including clerics, to propagate the narrative.
The former governor of Kano State also explained that he had found peace since leaving the PDP for the NNPP and distanced himself from the power-sharing agreement.
The kidnapped senior Anglican cleric, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala has regained freedom.
Archbishop Okpala was set free alongside his driver.
He confirmed his freedom in a post on his Facebook page, Thursday morning.
The clergyman simply wrote: “Praise the Lord!”
Hundreds of reactions followed immediately, thanking God for his freedom.
Okpala, a retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi, was released one month after he was abducted.
It could be recalled that he went missing on his way to Umuchu, a community in Anambra State for a burial ceremony.
Details of his release are still sketchy as of the time of filing this report, but it is being celebrated on various social media platforms of the Anglican Communion.
One of such platforms is the official Facebook page of St Stephens Anglican Church.
Lucky Escape As Turkish Airlines passengers plane makes emergency landing in Malta
Just in: LP’s Peter Obi opens up on merger deal with PDP, NNPP ahead 2027
Anglican Archbishop, Driver Freed After One Month In Kidnappers’ Camp
Just in: Terrorists ambush military truck, kill all soldiers on board
Nigerian Dancer, Korra Obidi Attacked with acid, stabbed on stage In UK
Meet Rare Gem 16 Years Old Chiaza, CEO of ‘RUN MARKET PLACE’
-
Metro21 hours agoPolice Rescue Abducted Pastor, Wife From Kidnappers Who Stormed Prayer Mountain
-
Economy24 hours agoJUST IN: Naira Gains N5 In Parallel Market January 1, 2025
-
News24 hours agoFG Confirms Reintroduction Of History In Nigerian Primary And Secondary Schools
-
Foreign8 hours agoSAD! Judge shoots self to death
-
News7 hours agoEducation Minister approves extension of schools’ resumption
-
Sports21 hours ago‘After earning millions as a footballer – but I ended up with only £597 in the bank’
-
Metro21 hours agoZamfara boils as bandits linked to Bello Turji abduct passengers, burn vehicle
-
News17 hours ago“Smoking cigarette, drinking alcohol is not a sin”— Pastor Abel Damina declares