Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has criticised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over the destruction of cannabis farms, arguing that Nigeria should consider legalising and regulating cannabis to unlock its economic potential.

Sowore made the remarks in a post on social media on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, following reports that the NDLEA destroyed two cannabis plantations in Edo State with an estimated yield of 4,628.9 kilogrammes.

The activist described the destruction of cannabis farms as wasteful at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multidimensional poverty.

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“It is idiotic to wake up, put on uniforms, march into farms, and set economically viable crops worth millions of dollars ablaze while your country is drowning in multidimensional poverty,” Sowore said.

He urged the NDLEA to stop destroying cannabis farms and called for a review of Nigeria’s existing approach to cannabis cultivation.

“Stop destroying cannabis farms. Stop wasting enormous economic opportunities in the name of a failed and outdated policy,” he added.

Sowore advocated the legalisation and proper regulation of cannabis, noting that Nigeria could develop a legitimate industry around its medicinal and industrial applications.

He said the government should invest in research, create jobs, generate revenue and establish a regulated cannabis industry that could contribute to the Nigerian economy.

“Legalize and properly regulate cannabis. Invest in research, harness its legitimate medicinal and industrial potential, create jobs, generate revenue, and build an industry Nigerians can benefit from,” he said.

The AAC presidential candidate further criticised the government’s current approach, saying, “You cannot burn your way out of poverty.”

His comments followed the NDLEA’s latest operations against illicit cannabis cultivation in Edo State.

The agency said the plantations were destroyed as part of efforts to curb illegal drug cultivation and trafficking.

The NDLEA has previously defended its enforcement efforts while also promoting alternative development programmes aimed at helping communities involved in illicit cannabis cultivation transition to lawful agricultural activities.

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