Nigerian Army Vows to Investigate Allegations of Military Protection for Drug Peddlers
The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has pledged to thoroughly investigate claims that certain military personnel are actively shielding illicit drug peddlers within the Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State. This commitment comes in response to serious accusations leveled by the LCDA chairman, Jimoh Saliu, who alleges that high-ranking military officers are providing protection to individuals involved in the narcotics trade in the area.
A Hub for Criminal Activity Identified
Chairman Saliu specifically pointed to a location known as “Gidan Drama,” situated in the Marine Beach community of Apapa, as a notorious hotspot for illegal drug operations. This area, he stated, is in close proximity to the Tego Army Barracks and has become a sanctuary for criminals. Saliu described Gidan Drama as a den where various illicit activities, including the sale of hard drugs and stolen merchandise, are rampant.
During an event commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Corona Schools Trust Council, held at St Theresa Nursery and Primary School in Marine Beach, Saliu appealed to the state government and other benevolent organizations. He urged them to consider acquiring the Gidan Drama site for the development of a much-needed secondary school, highlighting the dire security situation and its impact on the community’s future.
Escalating Security Concerns and Protection Allegations
“The security situation in the LCDA is so dire and porous that even here in Marine Beach, there is a place called Gidan Drama, which is a nightmare to our existence,” Saliu stated emphatically. He detailed ongoing efforts with the police to apprehend the individuals responsible for the criminal activities. However, he expressed frustration, claiming that the presence of “top military and police officers” at the location makes it exceedingly difficult to arrest drug peddlers and other criminal elements operating there.
Saliu elaborated on the modus operandi of these criminals, explaining that they often seek refuge in Gidan Drama after committing offenses, where they are allegedly provided with protection, thus thwarting any attempts at arrest.
Impact on Community and Future Generations
The chairman expressed deep concern for the future of the children in the community, whose prospects he believes are being jeopardized by the prevailing insecurity. He lamented the lack of investment in the area’s development by affluent residents, despite the presence of numerous millionaires and billionaires. Saliu painted a vivid picture of the situation at Gidan Drama, describing scenes at night where large sums of money are openly exchanged for illicit drugs. He also revealed that local government officials who dare to visit the area face threats or even detention.
In a striking anecdote, Saliu recounted an incident where three staff members of the Apapa-Iganmu LCDA were arrested two weeks prior and taken to the Naval Dockyard. He stated that he had to intervene by contacting the commander to explain that the staff were conducting an intelligence visit to Gidan Drama, which ultimately led to their release.
Saliu took the opportunity to commend the Corona Schools Trust Council for its proactive approach to investing in the education and future well-being of children.
Military Response and Call for Specificity
When approached for comment regarding the chairman’s allegations, the spokesperson for the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lt Col Musa Yahaya, emphasized the need for greater specificity. He stated that the chairman should clearly identify which branch of the military he is referring to, as the term “military” encompasses the Army, Navy, and Air Force, making it a vast organization.
“I speak for the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army,” Lt Col Yahaya clarified. “Issues like this require investigation before any response. I cannot speak on it for now, but I will make inquiries,” he informed the press via a telephone interview.
Commitment to Education and Community Development
Meanwhile, at the same event, the Chief Executive Officer of the Corona Schools Trust Council, Adedoyin Adesina, reiterated the organization’s unwavering commitment to addressing the challenge of out-of-school children. She shared that within a three-year period, the council had successfully enrolled 75 children in schools in the Ago-Egan community of Bariga LCDA. Adesina announced plans to extend this impactful initiative to other areas, including Gangare and the Apapa-Iganmu LCDA.
