WHY NAFDAC DG INSISTS ON DEATH PENALTY FOR DRUG PEDDLERS 09-02-25
By Sadiq Aminu The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has renewed calls for tougher penalties against drug peddlers who endanger lives for illicit profits.
In a statement on Saturday, Prof Adeyeye advocated the death penalty for drug traffickers, especially those whose actions lead to the death of children.
She emphasized that only strict punishments would effectively deter offenders, noting that the current penalties are too lenient.
Prof. Adeyeye cited a case where an individual imported a lethal dose of Tramadol yet received only a five-year prison sentence or a N250,000 fine.
“Who wouldn’t pay a fine of N250,000 and go on to commit the same offense? That’s part of our issue—there are no stringent measures in place to prevent repeat offenses,” the statement read.
According to her, lawmakers have promised to work with NAFDAC to make penalties for drug peddling far more severe.
However, she also highlighted the agency’s struggle with limited staff and resources, which hampers its enforcement efforts.
Despite these challenges, Prof Adeyeye said NAFDAC remains committed to combating the sale of harmful drugs and ensuring public safety.