The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended a twenty year-old undergraduate at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos for importing 1.745 kilogrammes of dried weeds that tested positive for cannabis popularly called hemp. The suspect, Udiomeh Kufre Ita was found in possession of the drug during the inward screening of passengers on an Africa World Airlines flight from Accra, Ghana at the weekend.
NDLEA Lagos Airport commander, Mr Hamza Umar said that the drug was detected during routine screening of passengers. “An undergraduate student was found in possession of two parcels of cannabis weighing 1.745kg during routine search of passengers. The drug was hidden inside his bag containing personal effects. He was immediately arrested and the case is under investigation” Hamza stated.
The suspect who reportedly gained admission into the faculty of Management Sciences at the Regent University is currently assisting narcotic investigators assigned to the case. In his confessional statement, Udoimeh Kufre Ita said that he used his tuition fees in purchasing the drug found on him.
According to the suspect, “I spent my school fees on cell phone, smoking hemp and attending night clubs. I bought a cell phone for 107,000 naira and spent my school fees recklessly. I thought I could make enough profit from the sale of cannabis to offset the deficit in my tuition. I bought each parcel of hemp for 220 Ghana cedi. I did not know what came over me and I am afraid to go to my parents. My father is a retiree” the suspect stated. He hails from Akwa-Ibom State but grew up in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.
Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA Ahmadu Giade has described the action of the student as shameful and sad. In his words, “this is very shameful and sad. It shows that the suspect is morally bankrupt. Students must understand that drug use is inimical to the pursuit of their academic goals” Giade stated.
The NDLEA boss called on members of the public to avoid drug use and support the fight against drugs. “Abstinence from drug use is the best solution but those who have problem with drug use should please seek professional help before it is too late. Let us support the anti-drug campaign for a peaceful and fulfilled life” Giade added.
The suspect will be placed on counselling and may likely be charged to court for unlawful importation of cannabis.
