NDLEA Arrests Suspect, Warns Nigerians Against Fake Medicinal Cannabis

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians about the circulation of counterfeit medicinal cannabis products, following the recent arrest of a suspected drug kingpin in Lagos. The suspect, a 28-year-old man identified as Afeez Salisu, was apprehended during a raid at his illicit packaging and distribution enclave located at 2 Akala Street, off Umoru Street in Mushin, Lagos.

Authorities recovered a total of 16.4 kilograms of synthetic and dangerously potent cannabis strains, including varieties labeled as Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud. These substances were deceptively packaged in designer pouches and cups, fraudulently marketed as safe medicinal cannabis products.

NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr. Femi Babafemi, cautioned the public—especially youths—against consuming these deceptive products. “These so-called medicinal cannabis products are, in reality, highly adulterated, psychoactive substances that pose severe health risks,” he stated. Investigations revealed that these illicit drugs contain dangerously high concentrations of harmful compounds known to cause addiction, paranoia, psychosis, acute anxiety, and long-term cognitive impairments.

NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), emphasized that cannabis remains illegal in Nigeria. He highlighted that criminals are exploiting the global discourse on medicinal cannabis to smuggle life-damaging drugs into Nigerian communities under the guise of therapeutic use.

The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and not fall prey to flashy packaging or false health claims surrounding these fake medicinal cannabis products. The public is encouraged to report anyone involved in the sale or distribution of such illicit drugs to NDLEA offices nationwide.

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This crackdown comes amid a rise in online promotion and sales of unregulated cannabis-related products claiming wellness benefits, which NDLEA categorically denounces as unsafe and illegal. The agency continues to intensify its efforts to clamp down on networks involved in trafficking and distributing dangerous substances under any pretext.

NDLEA’s public alert serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing risks posed by illicit drugs disguised as medicinal products, highlighting the imperative for public awareness and cooperation in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria.