The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the arrest of a 61-year-old drug kingpin and Lagos socialite, Alhaja Aishat Feyisara Ajoke Elediye, popularly known as “Iya Ruka,” in her mansion at Okota, Lagos.
Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja, disclosed the arrest in a statement on Sunday saying she was arrested on New Year’s Day.
Alhaja Ajoke, whose identity had remained concealed for years, has been on the NDLEA’s wanted list for allegedly leading a notorious drug cartel operating in the Mushin area of Lagos.
Her capture followed the interception of a truckload of illicit drugs transported by one of her staff.
Babafemi revealed that NDLEA operatives, acting on intelligence, intercepted a white Isuzu truck on January 1, 2025.
The vehicle, driven by 41-year-old Abideen Adio, was found carrying 44 jumbo sacks containing 1,540 kilograms of imported cannabis.
The arrest was finalized when operatives stormed Alhaja Ajoke’s residence at 33 Adebayo Oyewole Street, off Ago Palace Way, Okota, leading to her apprehension.
The statement reads, “On the surface, Alhaja Ajoke is a businesswoman who imports fabrics and shoes from China but beneath is a massive illicit drug trade. She is also recognized as the Iyalaje of Blessing Sisters, an influential club of society women in Lagos.”