NDLEA Busts Fake Medicinal Cannabis Ring in Lagos, Warns Nigerians Against Dangerous Illicit Drugs
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a public warning about the spread of fake medicinal cannabis in Nigeria, following the arrest of a 28-year-old suspect in Lagos.
According to a statement by the NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the suspect, identified as Afeez Salisu, also known as Malu, was arrested on November 1, 2025, at 2 Akala Street, Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos.
He was allegedly packaging and distributing synthetic and high-potency cannabis strains in designer pouches and cups falsely labelled as medicinal cannabis.
The agency recovered 16.4 kilograms of dangerous substances, including Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud, from the location. NDLEA clarified that these products were not approved medicinal cannabis but potent psychoactive drugs that pose serious health risks.
Babafemi warned that the seized substances were highly addictive and could cause severe mental health issues such as psychosis, paranoia, and long-term cognitive damage, especially among young people.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), condemned the act, noting that criminals were exploiting global interest in medicinal cannabis to promote illegal drugs in Nigeria. He emphasized that cannabis remains a banned substance in the country and any product marketed as medicinal cannabis is illegal and unsafe.
Marwa urged the public, especially the youth, to avoid such products and report anyone involved in their sale or distribution to the nearest NDLEA office.
He reiterated that no form of medicinal cannabis has been approved for sale or use in Nigeria and warned that consuming such fake products could have devastating mental and physical effects.
