NDLEA auctions properties seized from drug traffickers in 4 states
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency held a public auction on July 29, 2025, for properties forfeited by drug traffickers, including houses acquired with proceeds from illicit activities or used in committing the crime.
The event, held at the agency’s Abuja headquarters, drew attendees including pre-qualified auctioneers, bidders, civil society representatives, media personnel, and officials from various government agencies.
Speaking at the occasion, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.) who was represented by the Agency Secretary, Mr. Shadrack Haruna, said the exercise forms part of the Agency’s strategic efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks by depriving offenders both liberty and illicit wealth in strict compliance with legal frameworks and due process.
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He reaffirmed the Agency’s resolve to pursue drug offenders not only through prosecution but also by targeting all assets acquired through proceeds of crime. According to him, “this auction is part of our broader commitment to transparency and justice.
Beyond prosecuting drug offenders, we are committed to ensuring that the financial incentives that drive these crimes are neutralized through legal forfeiture. This serves as both punishment and deterrence. When drug traffickers know they stand to lose everything, including their ill-gotten assets, it sends a stronger message than imprisonment alone.”
The auction involved forfeited eight properties across Lagos, Kano, Ondo, and Ogun. Two of the houses located in Lekki and Ikorodu areas of Lagos were stepped down from the process due to notices of appeal received after the processes had begun.
Six other properties were auctioned to pre-qualified bidders, with only two sold at over ₦139 million following successful bids above their reserved prices. Others either failed to receive any bids or attracted offers below the benchmark.
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