In a report by Leadership, the Senate has constituted a six-member ad hoc committee to investigate allegations made by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) that Senator Oyelola Ashiru, the Deputy Leader of the Senate and representative of Kwara South (APC), used his residence in Ilorin as a storage facility for illicit drugs.

The committee's formation follows a motion raised by Senator Ashiru, who strongly denied the accusations, stating he does not use drugs nor confuse cannabis with other narcotics. Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the committee's composition, led by Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe (PDP Abia South), with a mandate to submit its findings within one week.

The NDLEA alleged that Ashiru’s home in Ilorin was raided two days’ prior, revealing illicit drugs. They accused him of vendetta stemming from his remarks during a Senate debate on October 15 regarding a bill to create the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, where he criticised the NDLEA as “the most corrupt and compromised agency.”

During the session, Senator Ashiru, speaking under Order 42 of the Senate Rules, denied the allegations in a statement released Monday, labelling it an act of persecution. He expressed concern that the NDLEA targeted him for personal attacks, undermining his privilege as a senator to speak freely in debates.

He emphasised that he has never consumed drugs, stating, “At 68 years old, I do not even recognise cannabis or any narcotic. Beyond drinking water, I abstain from alcohol and any drugs, including carbonated beverages.”

Senator Ashiru further criticised the NDLEA’s actions as an attempt to intimidate the Senate, insisting that the issue of drug abuse must be addressed regardless of the individuals involved. He deemed the allegations against him as baseless and intended to tarnish his reputation and hinder his participation in legislative discussions.

Senate President Akpabio noted that the NDLEA’s response likely stemmed from Ashiru’s earlier comments regarding the integrity of its officials. He reminded his colleagues that statements made in the Senate are protected by privilege and cannot be debated publicly.

While acknowledging that Senator Ashiru had not been formally charged or invited by the NDLEA for questioning, Akpabio highlighted the need for the Senate to treat the matter seriously, stating, “Injury to one is an injury to all.” He then introduced the members of the hoc committee and directed them to summon NDLEA representatives and relevant individuals to substantiate their claims.