Abia Schoolchildren Targeted as NDLEA Arrests Two Elderly Men Over Alleged Drug Supply
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested two elderly men accused of supplying illicit drugs to secondary school students in Umuahia, Abia State. The suspects, aged 84 and 75, were arrested in separate operations after the agency received intelligence about alleged drug distribution involving teenagers.
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi said one of the suspects, Godwin Obulunbiya Obiora, was arrested on June 19 after operatives discovered that he was allegedly selling illicit substances from his patent medicine store. A search of the premises reportedly led to the recovery of 4.64 kilograms of opioids, including tramadol and diazepam.
The agency also said 84-year-old Godfrey Orji, a pensioner, was arrested after he was allegedly caught supplying drugs to two teenage students at Saint Silas Secondary School, Old Umuahia. One of the students, a 15-year-old Senior Secondary School Two pupil, reportedly told investigators that Orji regularly supplied him with drugs, which he also sold to other students.
The arrests have raised concerns about the risks children face when illegal substances become accessible within school communities. Child protection advocates say preventing drug exposure among young people requires stronger community vigilance, early intervention, and support systems for children affected by substance use.
NDLEA said the affected students have been placed on counselling and rehabilitation programmes, while the suspects will face prosecution. The agency also urged parents, schools, and communities to remain alert to protect children from exploitation and harmful influences.
