The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended 58-year-old fugitive drug suspect Uzoma Ilomuanya, who had been on the wanted list of both Nigerian and British authorities for over 15 years.
Ilomuanya was arrested in Lagos on Monday, February 23, 2026, during a high-stakes operation carried out by the agency’s Special Operations Unit.
Long History of Drug Offences
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi said Ilomuanya had a long record of drug-related offences in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
He was first arrested in the UK in February 2003 and convicted for drug trafficking, receiving a nine-year sentence. Ilomuanya served two years before being released on appeal. In July 2011, he was again arrested in the UK for drug-related offences but jumped bail and fled to Nigeria.
In November 2018, NDLEA operatives discovered two clandestine methamphetamine laboratories linked to Ilomuanya — one in Lagos and another in Obinugwu, Orlu LGA, Imo State. Officers seized nearly 78 kilograms of methamphetamine and production equipment. Following his arrest, he was charged before a Federal High Court in Lagos but later jumped bail, remaining on the run until his recent capture.
“In a significant blow to international drug trafficking networks, the NDLEA has arrested a recidivist with a persistent involvement in the global narcotics trade,” Babafemi said.
Agency Reacts to Arrest
NDLEA Chairman/CEO Buba Marwa described the arrest as a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs.
“This underscores our commitment to working with international partners to prevent Nigeria from being used as a hub for illegal drug operations. We will continue to pursue those involved in the trade and strengthen intelligence-led operations,” he said, commending the Special Operations Unit for their role.
The arrest comes just days after the NDLEA captured another fugitive, Reginald Chidiebere, who had evaded authorities for 13 years over alleged cocaine and heroin trafficking.
