NDLEA Dismisses Allegations Of Biassed Appointments, Nepotism As Baseless

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has denied allegations of nepotism and favouritism in the appointment of its Directors, Commanders, and other top officials.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the agency referred to insinuations in some social media posts as false, claiming that appointments to high-ranking positions favour Northern Muslims over Southern Christians.

The statement read: “For the benefit of the reading public, the agency would like to state as follows:

“Out of the 20 Directors/Commanders in NDLEA, 14 are Christians and 6 are Muslims; of the 14 Zonal Commanders, 9 are Christians and 5 are Muslims; of the 37 State Commanders, 19 are Christians and 18 are Muslims; of the 14 Special Area Commanders, 10 are Christians and 4 are Muslims; of the 12 Coordinators/Heads of Units, 9 are Christians and 3 are Muslims; and of the 11 Heads of Operation, 7 are Christians and 4 are Muslims.”

“In total, 68 of the 108 highest-level appointments and positions in the agency are held by Christians and 40 by Muslims, representing a ratio of 63% – 37%, contrary to the perception that some mischief-makers are attempting to create against the agency’s leadership.”

“The agency wishes to assure the public that its leadership remains focused and committed to the goal of combating substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking while adhering to the principles of fairness, equity, and merit in the distribution of opportunities for its workforce.”