Indian authorities have requested that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria stop using the term “Indian Hemp” to refer to cannabis, a name that Nigerians have used for Cannabis Certi, a banned substance.
The Cross River State Commander of the NDLEA, Rachel Umebuali, revealed this in an interview in Calabar while listing local government areas in the state known for illegal drug consumption and cultivation.
Umebuali, who did not disclose Indian authorities that issued the caution, mentioned that they felt the term carried negative connotations and did not want to be associated with it.
“This is why we prefer and encourage all Nigerians to call it Cannabis Certi—what, in street language, is called Kanja, we-we, Igbo, marijuana, among others,” she explained.
Umebuali identified Akamkpa, Ikom, Odukpani, Yakurr, and Calabar South LGAs as notorious for these activities.
“There are several new substances that have been discovered. And Calabar South LGA is actually the hub where hard drugs and other substances are distributed and consumed in large quantities.
“In Akamkpa, Ikom, and Odukpani LGA, we discovered massive Cannabis farms. There are more than 100 hectares of these farms that we have so far destroyed.
“We noted that many of those cultivating these farms are not even from Cross River but connived with unscrupulous landowners to give out these vast lands at agreed fees, and employed locals to work there.”
Umebuali revealed that the cultivation of Cannabis Certi has been relocated from states like Edo and Ondo to Cross River and other hinterland areas.
The drug enforcement chief disclosed that in six months, they have arrested 208 drug peddlers and consumers.
“We arrested 208 drug users. Out of this number, 181 are male, while 27 are female. We seized 3,475.65 kg, equivalent to 3.5 tons of hard drugs. The most significant of these is Cannabis Certi.”
She vowed that no one, including traditional, religious, or political leaders, or those involved in drug farming, would be spared in their ongoing crackdown, despite the enormous challenges they face.
“As you know, when you fight such criminal elements and destroy their source of livelihoods, they will fight back. But my mandate is to curb all drugs-related activities in the state.”
Umebuali elucidated that every individual possesses the right to apprehend offenders, but must promptly surrender them to the appropriate enforcement agencies.
The Commander lauded the traditional dignitaries and the state government for their unwavering support in the battle against drug-related activities.
She remarked on the existence of dual-faceted sensitization programs, encompassing drug demand reduction and consumption.
Umebuali emphasized the urgent need for rehabilitation centers to accommodate those affected, facilitating their detachment and eventual reunification with their families. She remarked that the alarming number of users is indeed a cause for concern.
The Commander, therefore, sought the collaboration of the general public in order to penetrate hard-to-reach communities where drug abuse is prevalent to save innocent locals.