A physically-challenged woman, Rita Idehen, alongside six others, has been sentenced to a cumulative 93 years in prison by the Federal High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State, following their conviction for various drug-related offences in July.

Justice Professor Chuka Obiozor delivered six of the judgments, while Justice J. B. O. Quadri issued the seventh.

According to Mitchell Ofoyeju, Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State, a total of 15 cases were filed in court in July, with seven convictions secured—comprising two women and five men. As of July 31, 2025, 113 drug-related cases remained pending.

Commending the convictions, Ofoyeju emphasized that a physical disability does not excuse criminal behavior. “These rulings send a strong message that disability is not a shield against prosecution for serious offences like drug trafficking. Anyone who engages in crime, regardless of their condition, will be held accountable,” he said.

He also praised the NDLEA’s efforts under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), asserting that firm court rulings serve as an effective deterrent and contribute to public safety.

Rita Idehen, from Oredo LGA, was convicted under case number FHC/B/114C/2022 on two counts of unlawful possession and dealing in cannabis sativa (2.5 kg), Loud (1.8 grams), and Swinol (2.2 grams). She received a 15-year prison sentence with an option of a ₦3 million fine.

Another female convict, Risikatu Tijani from Osogbo LGA in Osun State, was arrested with 8.701 kg of cannabis and 42 grams of methamphetamine. Charged under case number FHC/B/94C/2024, she was sentenced to 17 years in prison with an option of a ₦4 million fine.

Friday Robert, from Owan West LGA, was found guilty under case FHC/B/187C/2022 for unlawful possession and transportation of 22 kg of cannabis. He was handed a 15-year sentence or a ₦3 million fine. The motorcycle used in the operation (registration number 371QB Edo) was also forfeited to the federal government.

Etimesy Stephen, from Ndokwa West LGA of Delta State, was convicted for cultivating 0.597884 hectares of cannabis sativa (case number FHC/B/44C/2025). He was sentenced to 15 years in prison or a ₦1.5 million fine.

Salami Philip Timothy, of Etsako West LGA, was convicted under case FHC/B/18C/2024 for unlawful possession of multiple substances including cannabis sativa, Tramadol, Swinol, Danabol, and codeine-based syrup. He received a 15-year prison sentence with a ₦3 million fine option.

Christopher Tanko, from Kagarko LGA of Kaduna State, was found guilty of possessing cannabis, methamphetamine, cocaine, Rohypnol, and Tramadol under case number FHC/B/152C/2024. He was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment or a ₦5 million fine.

Lastly, Henry Bitrus Okoye from Esan South East LGA of Edo State was convicted for possession of 1.068 kg of cannabis sativa and received a one-year sentence with the option of a ₦1 million fine.