The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the circulation of fake medicinal cannabis, which contains illicit substances that can be harmful to health.
This alert follows the arrest of a 28-year-old suspect, Afeez Salisu, who was packaging and distributing synthetic cannabis strains in designer pouches and cups labeled as medicinal cannabis.
According to NDLEA Chairman, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa, the fake medicinal cannabis products are exploiting the global conversation around medicinal cannabis to push illicit and life-destroying products into Nigerian communities.
He emphasized that cannabis remains a prohibited substance in Nigeria, and any product sold locally as medicinal cannabis is fake, dangerous, and illegal.
The NDLEA has recovered 16.4 kilograms of synthetic cannabis strains, including Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud, which are highly addictive and pose significant risks to public health and safety.
These substances are associated with severe mental health issues, including psychosis, acute anxiety, paranoia, and long-term cognitive impairments, especially among young people.
The NDLEA urges Nigerians, especially the youth, to be vigilant and report anyone involved in the illicit trade of these substances to the nearest NDLEA office.
The agency is committed to combating the spread of fake medicinal cannabis and protecting Nigerians from its harmful effects.
