A Federal High Court sitting in Benin City has sentenced 29-year-old Owoeye Tobi to 10 years imprisonment with hard labour for unlawful possession of multiple illegal substances, including Cannabis Sativa, Heroin, Cocaine, Tramadol capsules, and Methamphetamine.

Presiding over the case, Justice B.O. Quadri delivered the verdict in case number FHC/B/16c/2025, handing down a sentence of two years imprisonment with hard labour on each of the five counts.

The court also offered an alternative fine of N5 million per count—amounting to N25 million in total.

“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 naira per count,” Justice Quadri ruled.

The convict, a native of Osun State, was arrested in February 2025 by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command.

She was found in possession of 168.1 grams of various illicit drugs: 161 grams of Cannabis Sativa, 0.2 grams of Heroin, 0.7 grams of Cocaine, 2.4 grams of Tramadol capsules, and 3.8 grams of Methamphetamine.

Reacting to the judgment, NDLEA Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described the ruling as timely and commendable, stating that tough penalties serve as a deterrent to potential offenders.

“I am pleased with the judgement. Drug trafficking is a criminal offence that has wreaked untold havoc on individuals, families, and society. Those who inflict such pain must not go unpunished. If drug traffickers know that the penalty is both certain and severe, they will think twice. This ruling is a welcome development and highly commendable,” Ofoyeju said.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to collaborating with law enforcement, the judiciary, and community groups to combat the drug menace across the state.

The NDLEA further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drug-related activity. The conviction of Tobi, the agency noted, is a strong reminder of the serious legal consequences awaiting those involved in the illicit drug trade.