A Federal High Court in Benin City, Edo State, has sentenced a 29-year-old woman, Owoeye Tobi, to 10 years imprisonment with hard labor for unlawful possession of various narcotic drugs. The conviction followed her arrest in February 2025 by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command.

Justice B. O. Quadiri found Tobi guilty of five separate counts related to the unlawful possession of illegal drugs, including Cannabis Sativa, Heroin, Cocaine, Tramadol capsules, and Methamphetamine. The total quantity of drugs seized from her was 168.1 grams.

The court sentenced Tobi to two years imprisonment with hard labor on each count or an option of a fine of N5 million on each count, bringing the total to 10 years in prison or a cumulative fine of N25 million. “After reviewing the facts of this case, you are hereby sentenced to two calendar years’ imprisonment with hard labor on each count or to pay an option of a fine of five million on each count,” Justice Quadiri ruled.

Reacting to the ruling, NDLEA Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, applauded the decision, describing it as a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking. “I am pleased with the judgment. Drug trafficking is a criminal offense that has caused untold havoc to mankind, affecting individuals, families, and society,” Ofoyeju said.

Ofoyeju added that the ruling would serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders. “If drug traffickers know that penalty is not only certain but commensurate, they will be dissuaded. The ruling is a welcome development and also highly commendable,” he said.

The NDLEA commander pledged to continue working collaboratively with law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and community organizations to address the drug problem.