NACOC Grabs 5 Central University Students Over Drug Operation

Central University has suspended all remaining activities marking its 2026 Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Week following the arrest of five individuals by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) over an alleged drug operation linked to the celebrations.

The university announced the decision in a statement, assuring students, parents, staff, and the general public that it is working closely with NACOC and other relevant state agencies to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

Management further assured stakeholders that it remains committed to cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies and would continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline, responsibility and institutional integrity.

“Management urges restraint as five individuals remain in custody, pledges full cooperation with investigators while reviewing campus safety measures” the statement stated.

The development comes after NACOC reportedly arrested the suspects during an intelligence-led operation over the alleged production and distribution of cannabis and cannabis-infused products at an event associated with the SRC Week celebrations.

Investigators are said to have recovered suspected narcotic substances and other items believed to have been used in the operation, with forensic examinations currently underway.

In its official statement, Central University stressed that it would refrain from making premature conclusions until investigators complete their work.

“At this stage, the University is engaging with NACOC and other relevant authorities to establish the facts and obtain verified information regarding the circumstances surrounding the matter. As investigations are ongoing, Management considers it important to avoid speculation and allow the due process of the law to take its course” the statement further explained.

The university indicated that suspending the remaining SRC Week programmes was a precautionary decision aimed at preserving order and ensuring the safety of members of the university community while authorities continue their investigations.

Management further assured the public and students that it remains committed to cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies and would continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline, responsibility and institutional integrity.

While student festivals traditionally provide opportunities for social interaction, leadership development, and cultural expression, security analysts warn that such gatherings can become targets for illegal activities without adequate oversight.

The development has shifted attention beyond the arrests to broader issues of event management, campus surveillance and student engagement, with education stakeholders urging universities to continually review security systems to ensure campus events remain safe for students and visitors.

The arrests reflect NACOC’s ongoing efforts to dismantle drug distribution networks within educational institutions, with reports indicating the operation at Central University followed a period of intelligence gathering.

Investigators are examining whether the alleged activities extended beyond the five suspects currently in custody and whether similar incidents may have occurred during previous campus events, although no formal charges have yet been announced.

Despite the controversy, Central University has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence, discipline and character formation, stressing its dedication to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment while promoting responsibility and ethical leadership among students.

The statement added, “Central University remains firmly committed to maintaining a safe, secure and conducive environment for learning, while upholding the highest standards of discipline, responsibility and integrity expected of all members of its community.”

The university also sought to reassure parents and guardians that appropriate measures are being taken to safeguard students while investigations continue. Officials disclosed that existing event management protocols will undergo review as part of efforts to strengthen campus security and minimise future risks.

The incident underscores the delicate balance universities must maintain between promoting vibrant student life and ensuring compliance with institutional rules and national laws.

Rather than relying solely on enforcement, they argue that institutions should strengthen mentorship initiatives capable of steering students away from risky behaviour before it escalates into criminal conduct.

“Investigations still ongoing, both Central University and NACOC urged the public to avoid speculation until all facts have been established. The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine whether additional arrests will be made or criminal charges preferred against the suspects”.