A Federal High Court sitting in Kano has handed a seven-year prison sentence to 28-year-old Ashiru Idris for using social media to advertise cannabis sativa for sale.
The conviction was announced by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in a statement released by the Media and Advocacy Officer of its Kano Strategic Command, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari.
The agency said Justice S.M. Shuaibu convicted Idris on July 14, 2026, following his prosecution over the online promotion of the illicit substance.
“The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) today commends the Federal High Court, Kano, for delivering a landmark judgment in a matter arising from public advertisement and sale of cannabis sativa.
“On 22 April 2026, operatives of the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command, acting on the directive of the State Commander, CN DY Lawal, arrested one Ashiru Idris (m), 28, following the circulation on social media of a video showing him publicly advertising cannabis sativa for sale,” the statement read.
According to the NDLEA, the court ruled that the prison term would begin from the date the judgment was delivered, with no option of a fine.
The Kano Strategic Commander of the agency, CN DY Lawal, said the ruling sends a strong message to anyone involved in promoting or dealing in illegal drugs.
“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,” Lawal said.
The anti-drug agency also encouraged Nigerians to support its efforts by reporting suspected drug-related activities and providing credible information to security authorities.
