The Federal High Court in Abuja has handed down life sentences to two notorious drug traffickers, Uwaezuoke Christian and Agbo Prince, for orchestrating a global cocaine smuggling operation.

"Their years of criminal enterprise of exporting cocaine across continents have come to an end with this sentencing," said Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in a statement released on Sunday.

"Uwaezuoke Christian's journey to a lifetime in jail began when he was first arrested by NDLEA operatives in 2022," Babafemi explained.

"Despite his plea, the court, noting his lack of remorse, the seriousness of drug-related offences, and the fact that he is a repeated offender, convicted and sentenced him to life imprisonment."

"Agbo Prince, aged 42, was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja in October 2023," Babafemi continued.

"He pleaded guilty to the charges and was swiftly convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment."

These convictions mark a significant victory for the NDLEA in its ongoing battle against drug trafficking.

"These rulings send a strong message about the severity of drug-related crimes and the commitment of Nigerian authorities to combatting drug trafficking at both domestic and international levels," Babafemi emphasized. 

The agency's Chairman, retired Brig-Gen. Buba Marwa had previously disclosed that in 2023, 15 drug kingpins were among the 3,412 offenders successfully prosecuted, collectively receiving 168 years in prison.