NDLEA secures interim forfeiture of 17 drug-laden containers worth N33.6 billion
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA has obtained an interim forfeiture order from the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt for 17 shipping containers filled with illicit opioids, valued at over N33.6 billion. This development, disclosed by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, follows an ex parte application filed by the agency. The containers, intercepted at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Onne, Rivers State, between April and September 2025, contained millions of pills of Tramadol, Tafrodol, Tapentadol, Carisoprodol, and over 2.4 million bottles of Codeine Syrup. Justice Adamu Mohammed granted the order, forfeiting the consignments to the Federal Government of Nigeria and vesting custody in the NDLEA pending the final determination of the suit. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa Rtd, described the ruling as a significant blow to drug cartels, stating it dispossesses them of resources intended to fund criminality. Marwa commended the judiciary, officers of the Onne Port Command, sister security agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service, and international partners for their support in dismantling drug networks.
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Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of renowned juju musician Yekini Ajao, describing him as a close friend and a significant figure in Nigeria’s music industry. Ajao reportedly died after multiple surgeries in India, concluding a career that spanned decades. In a statement shared by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke paid tribute to Ajao, recognizing him as a pioneer of the Juju Makosa genre. Adeleke stated, “I lost a very close friend, Y.K. We prayed for him to survive but God ruled otherwise. I commiserate with his family and our circle of friends, notably Shina Peters and others. His memories remain evergreen. He was a true music legend.” The governor also recalled Ajao’s performance at the inauguration of his late brother, Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, the first executive governor of Osun State. Born in Iseyin, Oyo State, Ajao began his musical journey at nine and became a respected figure in juju music, credited with creating Juju Makosa by blending traditional juju rhythms with makossa influences. He was inspired by I.K. Dairo. Before music, Ajao trained as a fashion designer and worked as a nurse. He moved to Lagos in 1971, joined a band, and formed his own group in December 1973. His debut album, Soromi Dayo, brought attention, but Macossa Series 1 propelled him to national prominence. He released notable songs including Makosa Series 2, Vigilante, Akoni Mamu Gege, and Oro NEPA. His death marks the end of an
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick stated on Tuesday that the team requires on-field leaders to realize his ambition of winning the Champions League. Flick, 61, made these comments a week after his team was eliminated from the Champions League quarter-finals by Atletico Madrid, marking the second consecutive season his Champions League hopes were ended. Last season, Barcelona reached the semi-finals before being defeated by Inter Milan. Flick led Barcelona to a domestic double last term, and they are currently nine points ahead of Real Madrid with seven games remaining in the league. He noted that having all players available during the crucial March and April period is vital, mentioning the absence of Frenkie de Jong and Raphinha against Atletico. Flick highlighted the importance of players like Inigo Martinez, who provided leadership last year, and stressed the need for players capable of speaking up and guiding the team in key Champions League matches. He also acknowledged the team's youth, largely composed of academy graduates, and their need to learn from defeats to progress. Flick expressed confidence in the team's future and the necessity of making correct decisions, particularly in the transfer market, though he did not elaborate on specific recruitment plans or his own future, only stating his hope for a contract extension in what he considers his "last job".
British long-distance runner Calli Hauger-Thackery completed the Boston Marathon while 22 weeks pregnant, describing it as one of the most meaningful moments of her career. The 33-year-old Olympian finished the race in two hours and 43 minutes. Hauger-Thackery faced challenges during the race, including a trapped nerve in her glute at mile five, which required medical attention. She also needed treatment again at mile 11 and made two stops for bathroom breaks due to her pregnancy. Despite these difficulties, she felt a significant improvement in the second half of the marathon, stating, "The second half felt flawless, like I was in tune with my body. I felt a million dollars." While her finishing time was slower than her personal best, Hauger-Thackery emphasized the personal significance of completing the race under these circumstances.
Must ReadPresident Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that US forces intercepted a ship en route to Iran, which he stated was carrying a "gift" from China. Trump told CNBC that the "gift" "wasn't very nice" and expressed surprise, noting he believed he had an "understanding" with China's President Xi Jinping. This incident follows an assurance Trump said he received from President Xi a week prior, indicating there would be no Chinese weapons deliveries to Iran, a long-standing partner of Beijing. The interception occurred as Tehran reportedly attempts to restock its military during a ceasefire period.