The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has begun an investigation into the sudden death of its Cross River State Commander, Chief Narcotics Officer Ogbonna Uzoma, who was found lifeless in his Calabar hotel room on Thursday.
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi confirmed on Friday that Uzoma, who assumed duty in the state on August 18, was scheduled to lead his officers on an operation that morning but failed to show up. Efforts by colleagues and hotel staff to reach him failed until attendants forced entry into his room through the ceiling and discovered his body.
The Cross River State Police Command has taken over the investigation, with the Commissioner of Police visiting the scene. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has directed the Zonal Commander, Zone 14, ACGN Mathew Ewah, to relocate to Calabar to support the inquiry.
Despite his short tenure, Uzoma was described as active and engaged in operational planning. Cross River has recently been a key focus of NDLEA operations, including the destruction of a 30-hectare cannabis farm in June 2025.
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