A Federal High Court, Benin Division, Edo State, has sentenced a 29-year-old woman, Owoeye Tobi, to 10 years in prison with hard labour for unlawful possession of various narcotic drugs. The convict however has an option of a fine of N25 million.
Tobi’s conviction followed her arrest in February 2025 by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command.
Delivering judgement in the case number FHC/B/16c/2025, Justice Babatunde O. Quadri, found Tobi guilty in five separate counts related to the unlawful possession of illegal drugs, including Cannabis Sativa, Heroin, Cocaine, Tramadol capsules, and Methamphetamine.
She was found with a total of 168.1 grams of drugs, broken down as follows: 161 grams of Cannabis Sativa, 0.2 grams of Heroin, 0.7 grams of Cocaine, 2.4 grams of Tramadol, and 3.8 grams of Methamphetamine.
Justice Quadri held that, “After reviewing the facts of this case, you are hereby sentenced to two calendar years’ imprisonment with hard labour on each count or to pay an option of a fine of five million on each count.” This brings the total to 10 years in prison or a cumulative fine of 25 million Naira, should the convict opt for the financial penalty.
Tobi, a native of Osun State, was arrested by NDLEA officials during a routine operation in Edo State. Her conviction is seen as a boost to the ongoing effort by authorities to clamp down on illicit drug trade within and beyond Edo State.
Reacting to the judgement, the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA Mitchell Ofoyeju applauded the decision, describing it as a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking.
Ofoyeju said, “I am pleased with the judgement. Drug trafficking is a criminal offence that has caused untold havoc to mankind, affecting individuals, families and society. Those who seek to inflict pain on society must not go unpunished.
“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. We will continue to work collaboratively with law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and community organisations to address the drug problem”.