Alhaji Sulaiman Jimoh, widely known as Temo or Olowoidiogede, has been apprehended by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The 57-year-old drug baron, who led a notorious drug cartel in Lagos’ Mushin area, was arrested on July 22, 2024.
The NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, announced the arrest in a press release. Babafemi noted that Jimoh had evaded capture for years, despite multiple confrontations and extensive drug seizures linked to his operations.
The NDLEA had previously intercepted large shipments of illicit drugs connected to Temo. Notable seizures included 14,524.8 kilograms of a potent cannabis strain known as Ghana Loud in January 2024, 8,852 kilograms in May 2023, and an additional 252 kilograms in July 2023. These operations often led to violent clashes with Temo’s armed associates.
On the day of his arrest, Temo attempted to escape in a Mercedes Benz SUV marked 01G-300G. However, his efforts were thwarted when a team of about 50 NDLEA operatives, who had been tracking him, intervened. Despite mobilizing his gang to resist, Temo was captured, and his vehicle was seized.
NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) praised the operation’s success. He commended the NDLEA officers for their persistence and professionalism, noting the arrest was achieved without casualties. Marwa emphasized that the arrest sends a strong message to other drug traffickers, underscoring that the NDLEA is closing in on those involved in the illegal drug trade.
“This is a clear message to others still involved in this criminal trade of illicit drugs that if they don’t opt out now, we’ll get them because we’re just steps away from their doorsteps,” Marwa stated.
The successful operation reflects the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and improve safety in Nigeria.
