Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has secured the conviction of a 28-year-old man, Ashiru Idris, who was sentenced to seven years in prison without the option of a fine for publicly advertising cannabis sativa for sale on social media. The Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice S.M. Shuaibu, delivered the judgment on July 14, 2026, ordering that the prison term take effect from that date. The conviction follows Idris's arrest on April 22, 2026, by operatives of the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command, acting on the directive of the State Commander, CN D.Y. Lawal.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command's Media and Advocacy Officer, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, the arrest was triggered by the circulation of a video on social media showing Idris publicly promoting cannabis for sale. The NDLEA described the judgment as a landmark decision and a strong deterrent to individuals who brazenly promote or engage in the illicit drug trade on public platforms. Reacting to the ruling, the Kano State Commander, CN Lawal, said: "This judgment reinforces our resolve to confront drug offenders who brazenly promote illegal substances on public platforms. We will continue to act swiftly on credible leads and ensure offenders are brought to justice".
The agency also commended the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), CON, OFR, for his support and guidance, which have bolstered the command's operations and successes in Kano. The NDLEA urged families, community leaders, social media platforms, and members of the public to remain vigilant and support efforts to combat substance abuse by providing credible information that could aid the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
The conviction of Ashiru Idris highlights the growing trend of using social media platforms to advertise and facilitate drug transactions, a practice that law enforcement agencies have increasingly targeted in recent months. The NDLEA has intensified its crackdown on drug-related activities across Nigeria, securing numerous convictions and dismantling trafficking networks. The agency's Kano Strategic Command alone has recorded significant successes, including the arrest of hundreds of suspects and the seizure of large quantities of illicit substances. This latest conviction serves as a clear warning that the NDLEA will not tolerate the public promotion of illegal drugs, whether on traditional streets or digital platforms.
The seven-year sentence without the option of a fine underscores the severity with which the courts are treating drug-related offences, particularly those involving the brazen advertisement of controlled substances. Legal observers have noted that the judgment reflects a broader judicial commitment to combating the drug trade and protecting public health. The NDLEA has reiterated its determination to act swiftly on credible intelligence and ensure that offenders are brought to justice, regardless of the platform they use to operate.
As social media continues to play an increasingly significant role in everyday life, law enforcement agencies are adapting their strategies to monitor and disrupt illegal activities conducted online. The case of Ashiru Idris serves as a cautionary tale for individuals who may be tempted to use digital platforms to promote or sell illicit substances. The NDLEA has called on the public to support its efforts by reporting suspicious activities and providing information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of drug offenders. With the backing of the judiciary and the cooperation of communities, the agency remains committed to its mission of ridding Nigeria of the scourge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments