NDLEA Uncovers New Potent Cannabis Strain ‘California Loud’ in Lagos, Warns of Rising Drug Threat
Story: written byZara November 4,2025
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has sounded the alarm over the discovery of a new and highly potent strain of cannabis known as “California Loud” in Lagos State, warning that the substance poses a major threat to public health and safety.
This discovery follows closely on the heels of the agency’s recent bust of a synthetic cannabis laboratory in Ajao Estate, Isolo, where a variant called “Colorado” was being illegally produced inside a residential apartment.
During the operation, NDLEA operatives arrested 30-year-old suspect Stephen Imoh after months of undercover intelligence work that exposed the production site.
Speaking on TVC News’ “This Morning” programme on Monday, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi described “California Loud” as a new and extremely strong variant of cannabis, far more potent than locally grown strains.
“Loud is another strain of cannabis, but it’s far more powerful — its taste and psychoactive effect are stronger, which makes it more appealing to young users,” Babafemi explained.
“We recently uncovered a version called California Loud in Lagos, and it’s a growing concern. That’s why families, schools, and communities must join the fight to stop its spread.”
Babafemi also revisited the earlier discovery of the Colorado drug lab, describing the synthetic variant as “chemically dangerous” due to its composition.
“The THC compound is extracted from cannabis and mixed with other harmful chemicals, making it synthetic — and very harmful,” he noted.
He further revealed that the arrested suspect, Imoh, had already begun to suffer severe skin damage caused by exposure to toxic chemicals used during production.
“His skin is peeling and discoloured — a direct result of the chemical reactions from substances he handled,” Babafemi added.
Despite several successful crackdowns on drug syndicates nationwide, Nigeria continues to struggle with the rising tide of drug abuse and trafficking.
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.), reaffirmed the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on illicit drug production and distribution.
Marwa pledged that the NDLEA would continue to track, dismantle, and prosecute drug networks, ensuring that perpetrators are not only punished but also deprived of their illegal profits.
“We are intensifying our war against drug cartels. There will be no hiding place for anyone involved in this criminal trade,” Marwa vowed.
