The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has uncovered plots by some unscrupulous elements to introduce a lethal synthetic opioid, Fentanyl, into the Nigerian market.
The anti-narcotics agency said the lethal opioid is 100 times stronger than Tramadol, warning that the illicitly manufactured drug is capable of causing mass casualty among the youth population being targeted by the cartels.
NDLEA, in a statement by its Director, Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, said Fentanyl is currently responsible for over 70 per cent overdose deaths as well as a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the US.
It stated that every step must be taken to ensure that the drug is not allowed to circulate in Nigeria because of its lethality and the current drug abuse prevalence of 14.4 per cent in the country.
“We are not unaware of desperate efforts by some drug cartels to introduce to the Nigerian market, Fentanyl, which according to the CDC, is 80 times as potent as morphine and 100 times more potent than heroin.
“This, they plan to do either in liquid or powder form and/or with misleading labels to target our youth population. This they may also mix with other prescription drugs.
“The illegally manufactured Fentanyl in its liquid form can come in nasal sprays, eye drops, or small candies.
“As a result, parents and other stakeholders are advised to be vigilant, alert and warn their young ones against attempting experimenting with this illicit substance.
“Symptoms for Fentanyl exposure and/or overdose include pinpoint pupils, falling asleep or losing consciousness, slow and shallow breathing, choking or gurgling sounds, limp body, and pale, blue, or cold skin,” the NDLEA stated.
The anti-narcotics agency however assured the public that all necessary assets have been deployed to monitor the cartels involved in this latest threat to public health.
It further stated that the criminal plot of the drug cartels to bring Fentanyl to the country will be frustrated, with an assurance that they would be made to face the wrath of the law.
