Kano Task Force Denies Plans to Release Bus Seized in N500m Drug Case

The Kano State Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has rejected reports that a luxury passenger bus seized during a major drug trafficking investigation is set to be released by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Task Force Chairman Muhuyi Magaji said the investigation remains active and that authorities would pursue the case through prosecution once the necessary facts are established.

The bus was reportedly intercepted by NDLEA operatives during an intelligence-led operation in August, with illicit substances estimated at about N500 million recovered from or linked to the vehicle.

Six suspects were also reportedly arrested in connection with the operation. They were identified as Onyeka Vincent, Success Chibuzie, Nwankwo Wisdom, Emmanuel Jude, Chinedu Peter and Okodili Ogbuach.

Reports suggesting that the bus could be released had raised concerns, particularly because the vehicle was allegedly linked to a prominent businessman. Magaji, however, said he contacted the Kano State NDLEA commander, who assured him that the investigation had not been concluded.

The task force chairman disclosed that some drivers and conductors had been invited for questioning. He added that preliminary findings pointed to “some level of complicity” in the case, although the investigation is still ongoing.

Magaji also said investigators would examine the ownership of the vehicle as part of the case. He argued that claiming ignorance of criminal activity involving a property should not automatically shield its owner from scrutiny.

“I can assure you that the leadership of the NDLEA, together with the Kano State Government, is monitoring the case closely.

“We will follow the matter through to prosecution and will not allow any form of compromise,” he said.

Magaji urged members of the public to disregard speculation and await the outcome of the investigation, stressing that the task force would follow the case “to the letter”, irrespective of the individuals involved.