The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a stern warning to nightclub operators and attendees that so-called “drug parties” — gatherings organised for the consumption or distribution of illicit substances — are illegal and subject to severe sanctions. The declaration follows a high-profile raid at Proxy Night Club in Victoria Island, Lagos, during which over one hundred individuals, including the owner, were arrested and large quantities of cannabis (“Loud”) and nitrous-oxide were seized.
According to NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the agency conducted covert surveillance beginning at 11 pm and disrupted the event around 3 am, validating intelligence suggesting illicit activity. The agency emphasised that such gatherings not only violate the NDLEA Act, but also serve as hubs for drug recruitment and abuse among youths. Club owners found complicit face potential asset forfeiture and prosecution.
The agency urged community vigilance and collaboration with law-enforcement, saying the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to stem rising substance abuse and related criminality across Nigeria.
