By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disclosed the top five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Cross River State with the highest marijuana (Indian hemp or cannabis) cultivation.
The list was made known by CN Rachel Umebuali, head of NDLEA in the state, on Saturday, in a radio show with Iwara Iwara at Hit 95.9 FM Calabar.
According to Umebuali, the top 5 LGAs with highest Marijuana cultivation are:
1. Odukpani
2. Akamkpa
3. Ikom
4. Boki
5. Yakurr
According to data by Punch, Cross River recorded the highest volume of cannabis farm destruction, with 437,500kg eradicated across four major sites.
These included Esut Odot Forest Reserve, Odukpani Local Government Area (250,000kg), Awi Forest Area, Akamkpa LGA (50,000kg), Esut-Odot, Odukpani LGA (75,000kg), and Calabar River Community, also in Odukpani LGA (62,500kg).
The destruction took place over three consecutive months. In March 2025, 62,500kg was cleared at Calabar River Community; in April, 250,000kg was destroyed at Esut Odot Forest Reserve and 50,000kg at Awi Forest Area; while in May, 75,000kg was eradicated at Esut-Odot in the state.
Indian Hemp or marijuana or Igbo or ganja as popularly called, is prohibited in Nigeria.
The Indian Hemp Decree (or the Indian Hemp Act) prohibits the growth, production, and sale of plants in the genus cannabis.
It was enacted on 31st March 1966 by Major General Aguiyi Ironsi.
The act was preceded by the Dangerous Drug Ordinance of 1935, which restricted opium and other drugs
Possession of cannabis is also illegal and carries a minimum penalty of 12 years in prison, with potential for life imprisonment in trafficking cases.
The NDLEA is responsible for enforcing these laws, including combating drug trafficking.
