By Joy Yesufu
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned Nigerians, especially youths, about the circulation of fake “medicinal cannabis” products laced with highly dangerous psychoactive substances.
This follows the arrest of a 28-year-old suspected drug kingpin, Afeez Salisu, also known as Malu, who was apprehended on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 2 Akala Street, Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos.
NDLEA operatives recovered 16.4 kilograms of synthetic and highly potent strains of cannabis including Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud disguised in designer pouches and cups labeled as medicinal cannabis.
In a statement on Wednesday, NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, said investigations revealed that the seized products contained dangerously high concentrations of illicit substances falsely branded as therapeutic marijuana.
“These so-called medicinal products are in fact adulterated and extremely potent psychoactive drugs, not the regulated pharmaceutical cannabis being discussed in some countries,” the agency said.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.), described the syndicate’s actions as a deliberate attempt to exploit the global debate on medicinal cannabis to peddle illicit drugs.
“The criminal elements behind this deceit are exploiting conversations around medicinal cannabis to push life-destroying products into our communities.
“Cannabis remains a prohibited substance in Nigeria. Any product sold locally under the guise of ‘medicinal cannabis’ is fake, dangerous, and illegal.” Marwa said.
He urged Nigerians not to be deceived by fancy packaging or false health claims and advised the public to report anyone involved in the sale or distribution of such products to the nearest NDLEA office.
According to the agency, the confiscated substances pose severe risks including psychosis, paranoia, acute anxiety, and long-term cognitive impairment, particularly among young users.
