The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano Strategic Command has welcomed the 15-year prison sentence handed down to 20-year-old Muhammad Maharazu for drug trafficking and armed resistance to arrest. The judgment was delivered on April 15, 2026, by Justice S.M. Shuaibu of the Federal High Court 1 in Kano, following a swift prosecution after Maharazu’s arrest on February 14, 2026, in Filin Idi, a notorious drug hotspot in the city. The suspect was apprehended by NDLEA operatives from the Commander’s Special Joint Task Force who found him in possession of various illegal substances, including Diazepam tablets. His arrest came during an anti-drug operation that underscored the agency’s commitment to cracking down on drug-related crimes in Kano.
During the arrest, Maharazu attempted to flee and drew a long knife, posing a direct threat to the officers. Despite the danger, the NDLEA operatives remained composed and successfully disarmed him without injury, ensuring his safe custody. The incident highlighted the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in their daily operations. Maharazu was promptly charged to court, where the prosecution presented evidence of his possession of illicit drugs and his violent resistance. The court, after hearing the case, imposed a 15-year prison term with no option for a fine, and the sentence was to commence immediately from the date of judgment.
Commander D.Y. Lawal of NDLEA Kano Strategic Command commended the court’s decision, calling it a firm and decisive move against drug trafficking. “We are grateful to the Federal High Court and to Hon. Justice S.M. Shuaibu for this decisive judgment,” Lawal stated. He emphasized that the conviction sends a strong message to would-be offenders: no threat or act of violence will hinder NDLEA’s mission to secure Kano from drug abuse and trafficking. Lawal also stressed that even small quantities of illegal substances will not be tolerated and will face full legal consequences.
The agency views the sentencing as a deterrent to others who might consider using weapons to resist arrest or engage in drug-related activities. NDLEA Kano urged the public to support its efforts in the fight against narcotics, noting that combating drug crimes requires collective responsibility and community cooperation. The agency remains committed to ensuring that Kano does not become a sanctuary for drug traffickers, and this case serves as a clear example of the consequences of defying the law. As NDLEA continues its operations, the sentencing of Maharazu reinforces the government’s zero-tolerance policy on drug offenses in northern Nigeria.
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