Pecohub The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered a major fake medicinal cannabis operation in Lagos, arresting a suspected drug kingpin and warning Nigerians about the dangers of consuming illicit substances falsely branded as therapeutic products.
In a statement released on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi disclosed that operatives arrested 28-year-old Afeez Salisu, popularly known as Malu, during a sting operation on Saturday, November 1, at 2 Akala Street, off Umoru Street, Idi Oro, Mushin.
According to the agency, 16.4 kilograms of illicit and synthetic cannabis strains including Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud were recovered from Salisu’s store.
The substances were allegedly being packaged in designer pouches and cups labelled as medicinal cannabis, in a bid to deceive unsuspecting buyers.
NDLEA investigations revealed that the seized products were highly potent and adulterated psychoactive substances, not the regulated medicinal cannabis used in controlled pharmaceutical contexts.
The agency described the strains as extremely addictive and dangerous, capable of causing severe mental health issues such as psychosis, paranoia, and long-term cognitive impairment, particularly among young people.
Speaking on the development, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), condemned the deceit, stating that criminal elements are exploiting global discussions around medicinal cannabis to promote their illegal trade.
“Cannabis remains a prohibited substance in Nigeria,” Marwa warned. “Any product being sold locally under the guise of ‘medicinal cannabis’ is not only fake and dangerous but also illegal.”
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, avoid purchasing or consuming such misleading products, and promptly report any individuals or groups involved in the trade to the nearest NDLEA office.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that no illicit drug syndicate hides under the pretext of medicinal cannabis to endanger Nigerian lives.
