Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) apprehended a 62-year-old businessman named Nwabueze Izueke at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. He was allegedly attempting to smuggle cocaine, having ingested 95 oversized pellets weighing a total of 1.589 kilograms. The internal trafficking was reportedly motivated by Izueke's need for funds to complete construction of his house in his hometown.

The arrest took place during the passenger clearance process for those traveling to China via Ethiopian Airlines. NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi indicated that Izueke was specifically flagged for a security screening, which involved a body scan that revealed the presence of illicit substances. Further observation led to the expulsion of the drug pellets.

This incident sheds light on the ongoing drug trafficking issues that Nigeria faces, particularly with its citizens attempting to smuggle drugs across international borders. With increasing numbers of arrests in international airports, the NDLEA's actions demonstrate the agency's commitment to combatting drug-related crimes and raising awareness about the dangers associated with drug trafficking.