NDLEA Wins Court Approval to Destroy ₦480bn Methamphetamine Lab in Ogun

A Federal High Court in Lagos has granted the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) permission to destroy an alleged ₦480 billion methamphetamine laboratory uncovered in Abidagba Forest, Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Justice Musa Kakaki gave the approval on Friday despite objections from three Mexican nationals and seven Nigerians standing trial over the alleged establishment and operation of the clandestine drug laboratory.

The court, however, directed the NDLEA to preserve some disputed chemicals identified by the defence for use as evidence during the trial.

Arguing the application, NDLEA counsel Buhari Abdullahi told the court that the laboratory posed serious public health and environmental risks due to the hazardous chemicals stored at the facility.

He said NDLEA personnel had remained at the site for more than two months, exposing officers to toxic substances while securing the premises.

Abdullahi recalled that Justice Kakaki personally inspected the laboratory on July 22, observing that anyone entering the facility had to wear face masks and specialised protective equipment because of the dangerous environment.

According to the prosecutor, even defence lawyers were required to take safety precautions during the inspection, while he suffered an allergic reaction that forced him to leave the site.

Counsel to the defendants, Benson Ndakara, opposed the application, arguing that the alleged methamphetamine and other substances sought to be destroyed constituted critical evidence that should be preserved until they had been formally tendered and admitted as exhibits during trial.

He maintained that destroying the materials before the conclusion of the case could prejudice the defence.

After hearing arguments from both parties, Justice Kakaki granted the NDLEA's request but restrained the agency from destroying the specific chemicals identified by the defence until they are required during the proceedings.

The defendants are Juan Torrero, Nemecio Martinez Felix, Jesus Lopez Valles, Nwankwo Sunday Christian, Egwuonwu Uchenna Victor, Igwe Abuchi Remijus, Ifeanyichukwu Chibuike Joshua, Omonughwa Kingsley Orike, Nwobum Emeka, and Anochili Innocent, who prosecutors identified as the alleged drug baron.

They are facing an 11-count charge bordering on conspiracy, unlawful production and possession of methamphetamine, operating a drug trafficking organisation, and unlawful possession of precursor chemicals.

The trial is continuing before the Federal High Court.