Table of Contents
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the distribution of hazardous illicit substances that are deceptively packaged and marketed as medicinal cannabis.
This alert was prompted by the arrest of a 28-year-old suspected drug kingpin, Afeez Salisu, also known as Malu, on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 2 Akala Street, off Umoru Street, Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos.
The suspect was allegedly packaging and distributing these counterfeit products in designer pouches and cups.
This information was shared in a statement on Wednesday by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.
Babafemi revealed that 16.4 kilograms of synthetic cannabis varieties, including Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud, were confiscated from the suspect’s store.
According to Babafemi, the seized substances, which were labeled as medicinal cannabis, are, in reality, dangerous and highly potent psychoactive variants that are neither approved nor regulated as pharmaceutical products.
He elaborated that investigations indicated that these products contain high concentrations of illicit cannabis strains associated with severe psychological and cognitive effects, such as psychosis, paranoia, and anxiety, particularly among younger users.
The Chairman and Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), stated that the syndicate behind this illegal trade is taking advantage of global discussions surrounding medicinal cannabis to introduce harmful products into Nigerian communities.
“Cannabis remains a prohibited substance in Nigeria. Any product being sold locally under the pretense of being medicinal cannabis is fraudulent, dangerous, and illegal,” Marwa emphasized.
He urged the public to stay alert, refrain from consuming such products, and report anyone involved in their distribution to the nearest NDLEA office.
What should I do if I encounter products claiming to be medicinal cannabis?
If you come across products that claim to be medicinal cannabis, it is important to avoid consuming them and report the individuals selling them to the nearest NDLEA office.
Are there any health risks associated with synthetic cannabis?
Yes, synthetic cannabis can have severe psychological and cognitive effects, including psychosis, paranoia, and anxiety, especially among young users.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
