Felix Temitope, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – Adrienne Munju, a 41-year-old Canadian citizen, was sentenced to 11 years in prison by a Federal High Court in Lagos for importing 35.20 kilograms of a potent strain of synthetic cannabis known as "Canadian Loud." The conviction, delivered by Justice Dehinde Dipeolu, follows Munju’s arrest at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on October 3, 2024.
According to a statement signed by the agency's spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the case, brought forth by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), outlined two counts against Munju. During her arraignment, the court learned that she had been apprehended during the clearance of passengers arriving on a KLM flight. According to NDLEA officials, Munju had been recruited through an online platform to traffic the illicit drugs for a fee of 10,000 Canadian dollars, which she needed to fund her master's degree studies in Canada.
In court, Munju pleaded guilty to the charges, acknowledging her role in the importation and possession of the illegal substance. Prosecuting Counsel Barrister Abu Ibrahim detailed the evidence against her, which included two suitcases concealing the drugs, her Canadian passport, and laboratory analysis reports confirming the substance’s identity.
Justice Dipeolu sentenced Munju to six years for the importation charge and five years for possession, with the option of a N50 million fine for each count, totaling N100 million. This penalty reflects Nigeria's strict stance on drug trafficking, particularly for foreign nationals.
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, commended the efforts of the agency and the judiciary, stating that the case serves as a significant deterrent to others who might consider smuggling drugs into Nigeria. "The prompt conviction and stiff penalties will send a strong warning to both foreigners and locals contemplating similar illicit activities," he emphasized.
The swift legal process and severe sentence aim to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and maintaining public safety. The NDLEA continues to intensify its efforts in drug interdiction, highlighting the collaborative work of law enforcement agencies to ensure a drug-free environment in the country.
This case marks a crucial moment in Nigeria's ongoing battle against drug-related offenses, reflecting the seriousness with which the government treats such violations.
