Reps to investigate operations of agency

chika ebuzor

December 10, 2015 5:51 AM

This is sequel to a motion by Rep. Muhammad Soba (Kaduna-APC), which was unanimously adopted by members through a voice vote.

The House of Representatives says it will investigate how the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), deals with seizures, disposal of drugs and prosecution of offenders from 2000 to date.

The House, on Wednesday in Abuja, also urged the NDLEA to halt further destruction of seized drugs and the impending auction of seized assets and properties of drug offenders pending the conclusion of the investigation.

This is sequel to a motion by Rep. Muhammad Soba (Kaduna-APC), which was unanimously adopted by members through a voice vote.

Moving the motion, Soba expressed concern that the NDLEA, in the last 10 years, had not given adequate account of seized drugs, assets and properties of offenders estimated at N35billion.

The lawmaker said NDLEA was about to dispose of hard drugs and auction some seized and forfeited assets of drug offenders in the next few days.

According to him, the exercise is usually shrouded in secrecy contrary to the procedures stipulated by the law establishing the agency.

The Speaker of the House, Mr Yakubu Dogara, referred the matter to the House Committee on Drugs and Narcotics with a mandate to investigate and report back within six weeks for further legislative action.

chika ebuzor