A Federal High Court in Lagos has convicted a 56-year-old man, Adesokan Olalekan, for drug trafficking, following a case brought before Justice Ayokunle Faji by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Olalekan pleaded guilty to a one-count charge of illegally dealing in cannabis sativa, also known as hemp.
The prosecutor, Mr. Aondofa Korinjo, presented evidence through NDLEA operative Mr. Peter Ereche, detailing how Olalekan was caught with wrapped cannabis sativa concealed in a black nylon bag. Further analysis confirmed the substance to be cannabis sativa.
Exhibits tendered included:
– Certificate of test analysis
– Request for scientific aid form
– Drug analysis report
– Bulk of the substance
– Package of substance form
– Defendant’s confessional statement dated September 28
– Remnant of analyzed substance
Defense counsel Mrs. Vivian Ekwegh urged the court to show mercy, citing Olalekan’s status as a first-time offender with five dependent children and his remorsefulness.
Justice Faji convicted Olalekan as charged and adjourned sentencing until November 18. Olalekan will remain in custody pending sentencing.
This conviction highlights the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria, following recent arrests and convictions in Kano and other parts of the country.
