Why Drug Traffickers Prefer Certain Airlines in Nigeria
On August 1, 2023, Christian Uwaezuoke, a well-known Nigerian drug trafficker, boarded an Ethiopian Airlines flight at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, heading to India. At first glance, the 43-year-old appeared like any other traveler, but a body scan revealed he had ingested 1.822 kilograms of cocaine. Further investigation uncovered that Uwaezuoke was traveling under a false identity and was also wanted by the police for skipping bail a year prior.
Earlier, in March 2022, Uwaezuoke had been arrested at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) while arriving on another Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa with 2.243 kilograms of cocaine. After being granted bail and subsequently jumping it, his August 2023 arrest led to a life sentence handed down by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik in Abuja.
NDLEA’s press releases often detail such arrests, including the airlines and airports involved. Analyzing data from June 2023 to June 2024, it became evident that Ethiopian Airlines and Qatar Airways were notably frequent among drug traffickers. Out of 36 arrests during this period, 11 were connected to each of these airlines, suggesting a significant pattern.
Ethiopian Airlines, the largest African carrier with extensive global routes, and Qatar Airways, known for its broad international connectivity, were prominent in these findings. NDLEA’s annual reports from 2015 to 2022 also highlight Ethiopian Airlines as a top choice for traffickers at Lagos Airport.
The preference for specific airlines often relates to their extensive networks and connecting flights. According to Femi Babafemi of NDLEA, traffickers select airlines that facilitate their routes and offer connecting flights to evade detection. This notion is supported by the UNODC’s Global Report on Cocaine 2023, which identifies hubs in Ethiopia, Qatar, and the UAE as key transit points for drug trafficking.
Felix Johnson, a former trafficker, revealed that traffickers choose airlines based on their security measures and efficiency. He noted that some airlines might be lax in their security protocols, which traffickers exploit. Johnson also mentioned the impact of corruption and economic hardship in driving individuals towards drug trafficking.
The NDLEA has cautioned some airlines about their role in facilitating drug trafficking. While specific airlines have been warned, Femi Babafemi emphasizes the need for airlines to enforce strict security measures. According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, airlines must take precautions to prevent their means of transport from being used for drug trafficking.
Ethiopian Airlines’ Lagos area manager, Wondwossen Beyene, attributed high trafficking figures to the airline’s large passenger volume but denied complicity in drug trafficking. Similarly, the airline asserts that it adheres to rigorous training and ethical standards.
Aviation expert John Ojikutu argues that both airlines and airports share responsibility in preventing drug trafficking. He calls for scrutiny of airlines’ security programs and adherence to regulations.
Historically, Nigerian drug traffickers have been significant players in the global cocaine trade, with Nigeria emerging as a primary destination for trafficked drugs. The NDLEA’s data reflects that more drugs are trafficked into Nigeria than out, with Murtala Muhammed International Airport being a primary departure point.
Efforts to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria continue, with the NDLEA leading the charge. However, experts like Patrick Agbambu stress the need for more comprehensive measures, including enhanced social orientation and swift prosecution. Recent Senate proposals include severe penalties to bolster the fight against drug trafficking.
The persistence of drug trafficking highlights ongoing challenges, suggesting that while the NDLEA makes significant strides, further measures and reforms are essential to effectively address the issue.
