The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a public alert over the circulation of dangerous illicit substances being falsely packaged and sold as medicinal cannabis in parts of the country.

According to the agency, the warning 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 his residence on 2 Akala Street, off Umoru Street, Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos.

NDLEA operatives reportedly uncovered 16.4 kilograms of synthetic and highly potent cannabis strains, including Colorado, Arizona, Canadian Loud, and Ghana Loud, all packaged in designer pouches and cups labelled as “medicinal cannabis.”

In a statement released by the agency, the NDLEA clarified that the seized products were not legitimate pharmaceutical-grade cannabis preparations but adulterated psychoactive substances posing serious health risks.

“Investigations confirmed that these so-called medicinal products contain dangerously high concentrations of illicit cannabis strains known for their extreme potency and severe psychological effects,” the statement read. “These substances can trigger psychosis, acute anxiety, paranoia, and long-term cognitive impairments, particularly among young users.”

NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), condemned the deceptive marketing of such drugs, describing it as an attempt by criminal elements to exploit growing global conversations around medicinal cannabis.

“The criminals behind this deceit are only taking advantage of the medicinal cannabis debate to push their illicit and life-destroying products into our communities,” Marwa said. “Cannabis remains a prohibited substance in Nigeria, and any product sold locally under the guise of medicinal cannabis is fake, dangerous, and illegal.”

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report anyone involved