NDLEA alerts Nigerians over new dangerous illicit drug

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency on Tuesday said it has uncovered plans by some persons in the country to introduce an illicit drug called Fentanyl, into the Nigerian market.

The development was disclosed by the agency in a statement issued and made available to reporters by its Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.

According to the agency, Fentanyl which is 100 times stronger than Tramadol was to be produced either in powder or liquid form.

The statement warned that the illicit drug is capable of causing mass casualty in the country, particularly among the youthful population.

NDLEA called on all Nigerians, particularly parents and other stakeholders to remain vigilant.

Part of the statement reads, “We are not unaware of desperate efforts by some drug cartels to introduce to the Nigerian market, Fentanyl, which according to the CDC, is 80 times as potent as morphine and 100 times more potent than heroin.

“This, they plan to do either in liquid or powder form and/or with misleading labels to target our youth population.

“This they may also mix with other prescription drugs. The illegally manufactured fentanyl in its liquid form can come in nasal sprays, eye drops, or small candies”.