Nwabueze Izueke, a 62-year-old businessman from Lagos, was arrested at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport while trying to smuggle 95 wraps of cocaine to China. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) detained him after conducting a body scan that revealed he had ingested the drugs. Izueke intended to use the proceeds from this trafficking to complete a house he is building in his village.

According to a statement from the NDLEA’s spokesman, Femi Babafemi, the arrest took place during the routine clearance of passengers bound for China via an Ethiopian Airlines flight. After his arrest, Izueke expelled the pellets over several instances while under observation, marking a significant instance of drug trafficking apprehension in Nigeria. The amount of cocaine involved weighed approximately 1.589 kilograms, reflecting a serious violation of drug laws.

The case highlights the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces with drug trafficking, as many individuals resort to illegal means for financial stability, particularly for personal projects. The NDLEA’s proactive measures in intercepting such cases are crucial in curbing the drug trade in the region. As Izueke now faces drug trafficking charges, his case serves as a reminder of the dire consequences of engaging in narcotics-related activities, which not only threaten individual lives but also national security and public health.