By James Adamu
Human rights activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over its continued destruction of cannabis plantations, describing the practice as economically counterproductive for a nation grappling with widespread poverty.
In a post on X on Tuesday, Sowore urged the agency to reconsider its approach to cannabis cultivation, arguing that the current policy disregards the crop’s significant economic potential.
“It is idiotic for NDLEA to wake up, put on uniforms, march into farms, and set economically viable crops worth millions of dollars ablaze while your country is drowning in multidimensional poverty,” Sowore wrote.
His comments follow the NDLEA’s announcement that its Edo State Command had destroyed two cannabis plantations in the Igbanke Forest, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, with an estimated yield of 4,628.9 kilogrammes.
The agency also confirmed the arrest of 10 suspected drug traffickers in separate operations across the state.
Sowore argued that Nigeria is forgoing substantial economic opportunities by adhering to what he described as a “failed and outdated policy.”
He called on the government to pursue legalisation and structured regulation of cannabis, emphasising its legitimate applications in medicine and industry.
“Stop destroying cannabis farms. Stop wasting enormous economic opportunities in the name of a failed and outdated policy. Legalise and properly regulate cannabis. Invest in research, harness its legitimate medicinal and industrial potential, create jobs, generate revenue, and build an industry Nigerians can benefit from,” he stated.
“You cannot burn your way out of poverty,” he added.
The activist’s position reflects broader discussions underway regarding cannabis reform in Nigeria.
Spear News Nigeria reports that the National Assembly is currently drafting legislation to legalise cannabis for medicinal and economic purposes under a regulated framework.
Proponents of the legislation contend that such a move could generate substantial government revenue, create employment opportunities, and attract foreign investment, particularly as other nations develop regulated cannabis industries.
The NDLEA has consistently defended its enforcement stance, citing the widespread misuse and unregulated cultivation of cannabis across the country.
Agency Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has previously called for a “strong national response” to drug trafficking and advocated for an “Alternative Development Programme” designed to provide communities with legal and sustainable livelihoods as an alternative to illicit cannabis farming.
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