Reps Launch Nationwide Probe to Expose Drug Traffickers and Alcohol Abusers

Nigeria’s House of Representatives has announced plans to hold a nationwide fact-finding conference aimed at exposing drug traffickers, alcohol abusers, and companies fueling substance misuse across the country.

Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee investigating the rising cases of drug trafficking and alcohol abuse, Rep. Timeyin Adelegbe (APC–Ondo), said on Sunday that the panel would ensure perpetrators face prosecution to protect public health and restore integrity to Nigeria’s trade and regulatory systems.

Adelegbe disclosed that the committee would convene a multi-stakeholder conference in Abuja and Lagos to gather expert opinions and public submissions on how to combat the menace.

“We will not allow Nigeria to become a dumping ground for toxic products, illegal drugs, predatory advertising, and destructive business practices,” he said.

The lawmaker added that the probe was a response to growing public concerns about the surge in substance abuse and its devastating impact on young Nigerians.

“Our mandate is clear — to investigate companies within the drug, alcohol, and tobacco industries and ensure absolute compliance with Nigerian laws and ethical standards,” Adelegbe stated.

According to him, the Lagos conference will focus on the roles of the alcohol, tobacco, port terminals, and pharmaceutical industries, while the Abuja session will engage government agencies, NGOs, CSOs, and regulators to develop actionable recommendations.

He warned that any attempt by invited organizations to conceal or falsify information during the investigation would be treated as contempt of the National Assembly, as outlined in Section 89 of the 1999 Constitution.

Adelegbe stressed that the exercise was not a witch-hunt, but a patriotic effort to safeguard citizens’ wellbeing and promote ethical corporate conduct.