By Nkechi Eze
In a major breakthrough against transnational narcotics trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 58-year-old fugitive drug lord, Uzoma Valentine Ilomuanya, who had been on the wanted list of Nigerian and British authorities for over 15 years.
The arrest was disclosed in an official signed statement by the Director, Media and Advocacy of the Agency, Femi Babafemi, who said Ilomuanya was apprehended at a location in Lagos on Monday, February 23, 2026, following a high-stakes, well-coordinated operation by officers of the NDLEA’s Special Operations Unit.
According to the statement, the suspect’s arrest brings to an end a prolonged cat-and-mouse chase with law enforcement agencies over his alleged involvement in drug-related crimes spanning Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Ilomuanya was first arrested in February 2003 and convicted in the United Kingdom for drug trafficking. He was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment but was released after serving two years following a successful appeal. In July 2011, he was again arrested in the UK for drug-related offences. Although granted administrative bail, he reportedly jumped jurisdiction and fled to Nigeria.
In November 2018, NDLEA operatives arrested him in Nigeria after uncovering two clandestine methamphetamine laboratories at his country home in Obinugwu, Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, and at his residence at No. 3 Barrister Declan Uzoma Close, Lagos. During the operation, officers recovered 77.960 kilograms of methamphetamine and extensive production equipment.
He was subsequently charged before a Federal High Court in Lagos but allegedly jumped court bail and had remained at large until his recent arrest.
Reacting to the development, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the operation as a significant milestone in the agency’s relentless campaign against drug cartels.
“This arrest serves as a stern warning to those who think they can hide behind borders to escape justice. Whether you jump bail in London or set up clandestine labs in your village, the long arm of the NDLEA will eventually catch up with those who choose to undermine the health, security, and future of our nation,” Marwa stated.
He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration to ensure Nigeria is not used as a sanctuary for global drug lords. “The NDLEA under our watch will continue to strengthen intelligence-led operations, deepen international cooperation, and ensure that those involved in the illicit drug trade are brought to justice,” he added.
The NDLEA boss also commended officers of the Special Operations Unit for their professionalism, resilience and diligence in tracking down the fugitive, stressing that the Agency remains unwavering in its determination to dismantle drug trafficking networks operating within and beyond Nigeria.
