Olofin of Isheri seeks NDLEA partnership to combat drug abuse, offers land for Barracks

His Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Sulaiman Adekunle Bamgbade, the Olofin of Isheri Mole and Adimula of Awori Kingdoms, has called for stronger collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to tackle the growing challenge of drug abuse and trafficking within his domain.

The monarch made the appeal on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, during a courtesy visit to Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, at the agency’s headquarters.

Oba Bamgbade expressed concern over the rising cases of drug-related activities in Isheri Kara Market, the largest cattle market in southwestern Nigeria, located within his kingdom.

He described the market as a hotspot for illicit drug dealings, stressing the urgent need for decisive action.

To demonstrate his commitment, the royal father pledged to allocate land in Isheri Mole for the construction of an NDLEA barracks, which would enhance the agency’s presence and enforcement capacity in the border town, strategically located between Lagos and Ogun States.

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In his response, Gen. Marwa commended the monarch for his proactive initiative and assured him that the agency would immediately act on the intelligence provided.

He further disclosed that the NDLEA would seek approval to establish a permanent presence in Isheri to strengthen surveillance and clamp down on drug traffickers exploiting the community’s strategic location.

The Olofin was accompanied during the visit by Chief Mohammed Ajibola Olagbaye, President of the Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria, and Chief Isiaka Rasaki, the Ekerin of Ojodu Abiodun Kingdom.

The visit, palace officials said, reflects the monarch’s commitment to safeguarding his community from the devastating impact of substance abuse, while reinforcing cooperation between traditional institutions and national security agencies.