Alleged Smuggling of Cannabis Indica Lands Three in Court
A woman, Oluwakemi Akala, and two men, Onyekachi Aguguo and Tsolaye Eburajolo, were arraigned by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Tuesday before the Federal High Court in Lagos. They stand accused of conspiring to import and deal in 28 kilogrammes of Cannabis Indica, a narcotic drug similar to cocaine, heroin, and LSD.
The charges, which include conspiracy and illegal drug importation, were presented by the NDLEA’s prosecution counsel, Mr. Kunle Adebajo. The alleged offenses are said to have occurred on October 22, 2024, at an offloading warehouse located at Classic 1 Terminal, Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos.
Details of the Allegations
According to Mr. Adebajo, the accused individuals—along with one Austin, also known as Elohor Eguagie, who is currently at large—conspired to smuggle the cannabis into Nigeria. The drug was reportedly concealed inside a 2010 Lexus RX350, identified by the VIN JTJHK31U672011774. The prosecution emphasized that the activities contravened Section 14(b) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
Arraignment and Plea
When the charges were read in court, the three defendants pleaded not guilty. Mr. Adebajo subsequently requested a trial date and asked the court to remand the defendants in custody pending the commencement of their trial.
In response, counsel for Oluwakemi Akala, Mr. S. Sani, requested a short adjournment to enable him to file a formal bail application. On the other hand, the legal representatives for Onyekachi Aguguo and Tsolaye Eburajolo, Mr. Alli Aba and Justice Ojienoh, respectively, informed the court that they had already filed and served bail applications for their clients.
Bail Granted Under Strict Conditions
Justice Ayokunle Faji, presiding over the case, granted bail to each of the defendants in the sum of ₦8 million with two sureties in like sum. The court outlined specific conditions for the sureties:
- One surety must be a blood relative of the defendant and must provide proof of residence, a valid means of identification, a Bank Verification Number (BVN), and utility bills as evidence of their living situation.
- The second surety must demonstrate financial capability by submitting a bank statement showing sufficient funds to cover the bail sum in the event of a default. A three-year tax clearance certificate is also required.
Additionally, the defendants were ordered to surrender their travel documents, BVN, and National Identity Card numbers. They are prohibited from leaving the country without explicit permission from the court.
Verification and Custody Pending Bail
The deputy registrar of the court was instructed to verify all submitted bail documents within three days. Pending the fulfillment of their bail conditions, the defendants will remain in custody at a Nigerian correctional facility.
Adjournment for Trial
The case has been adjourned to March 24 and 25, 2025, for trial proceedings to commence. The prosecution is expected to present evidence and witnesses to substantiate the charges against the defendants.
Legal and Social Implications
This case highlights the continued efforts of the NDLEA to combat drug trafficking and enforce Nigeria’s narcotics laws. The agency’s vigilance in intercepting and prosecuting offenders is critical in curbing the illegal drug trade. However, the stringent bail conditions reflect the court’s recognition of the gravity of the allegations and the need to ensure that justice is served.
As the trial date approaches, legal experts and the public alike will be closely monitoring the proceedings for further developments.
