The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has convicted a 28-year-old man, Ashiru Idris, for advertising cannabis for sale on social media, sentencing him to seven years in prison without the option of a fine. The judgment was delivered by Justice S.M. Shuaibu of the Federal High Court 1 in Kano on July 14, 2026, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against drug-related crimes facilitated through digital platforms. The case began after NDLEA officers in Kano arrested Idris on April 22, 2026, following the circulation of a video showing him openly promoting cannabis sativa for sale online.
The arrest was carried out under the directive of the Kano State Commander, CN D.Y. Lawal, who emphasized the agency’s commitment to tackling drug offenders who exploit social media to market illegal substances. According to a statement released by the Kano Strategic Command’s Media and Advocacy Officer, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, the video went viral and drew immediate attention from law enforcement. The NDLEA acted swiftly, tracing the source and apprehending Idris within days of the footage surfacing.
The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which Nigerian authorities are treating online drug promotion. Justice Shuaibu’s ruling made it clear that public advertising of narcotics, regardless of the medium, will not be tolerated. The seven-year prison term is to be served immediately, starting from the date of the judgment. The NDLEA described the conviction as a strong deterrent to others who may consider using social media to engage in drug trafficking or related activities.
CN Lawal, speaking after the verdict, reiterated the agency’s resolve to pursue all individuals who brazenly promote illegal drugs on public platforms. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to NDLEA officials. “We will continue to act swiftly on credible leads and ensure offenders are brought to justice,” he said, highlighting the importance of public cooperation in curbing drug abuse.
The NDLEA also called on families, community leaders, and social media platforms to play active roles in combating drug-related crimes. The agency emphasized that timely information from the public can significantly aid investigations and prevent the spread of drug-related content online. As digital platforms become more prevalent in everyday life, the NDLEA’s focus on online drug promotion reflects a broader strategy to adapt to evolving criminal methods.
This case sets a precedent for how Nigeria will handle digital-era drug offenses. It sends a clear message that no platform is immune from legal scrutiny when it comes to illegal drug advertising. The conviction of Ashiru Idris is expected to influence future cases, reinforcing the legal consequences of using social media for illicit purposes.
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