A federal high court in Kano has sentenced Ashiru Idris, a 28-year-old man, to seven years in prison without the option of a fine for advertising cannabis sativa for sale on social media,
S.M. Shuaibu delivered the verdict on July 14, 2026, according to a statement issued by Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, media and advocacy officer for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) strategic command in Kano.
The case originated on April 22, 2026, when NDLEA operatives arrested Idris following the circulation of a video on social media in which he was seen openly promoting the sale of the illicit substance.
The arrest was carried out under the directive of the state commander, C.N. Dy Lawal.
“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,” the statement reads.
“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 anti-narcotic agency confirmed that the court ordered the seven-year sentence to run from the date of the judgment.
Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, the commander of the NDLEA Kano strategic command, described the judgment as a strong warning to individuals who promote or engage in the illicit drug trade.
“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,” he said.
The agency called on the public to support ongoing efforts against drug trafficking and substance abuse by providing reliable information to security agencies.
