A Federal High Court sitting in Kano has sentenced a 28-year-old man, Ashiru Idris, to seven years imprisonment without the option of a fine for advertising cannabis sativa for sale on social media.

The conviction was announced by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in a statement issued by the Media and Advocacy Officer of its Kano Strategic Command, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari.

According to the agency, Justice S.M. Shuaibu delivered the judgment on July 14, 2026, after finding Idris guilty of publicly promoting the sale of cannabis online.

Background

The NDLEA disclosed that the convict was arrested on April 22, 2026, following the circulation of a viral social media video in which he allegedly advertised cannabis sativa for sale.

“Operatives of the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command, acting on the directive of the State Commander, arrested Ashiru Idris after a video surfaced on social media showing him publicly advertising cannabis sativa for sale,” the statement said.

The court ordered that Idris’ seven-year jail term should begin from the date the judgment was delivered.

NDLEA Kano reaction

Reacting to the verdict, the Commander of the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command, CN DY Lawal, described the ruling as a strong warning to individuals involved in promoting or trafficking illicit 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 agency also urged members of the public to support the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse by providing timely and credible information to law enforcement authorities.

In addition, the agency described the judgment as a strong warning to anyone using social media to promote or sell illegal drugs.

“This judgment serves as a strong warning to anyone using social media to promote or sell illegal drugs. We will continue to act swiftly on credible intelligence and ensure offenders are brought to justice,” the agency said.