Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) has ordered an immediate clampdown on illegal sale and use of laughing gas, otherwise known as nitrous oxide.
Marwa, who is the Chairman/CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), directed all commands and formations of the agency to begin an immediate commencement of the clampdown on laughing gas.
He stated in a statement by NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, that the order became imperative following its abuse by people who use it for recreational purposes.
Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas that is commonly used for sedation and pain relief, more often by dentists and medical professionals to sedate patients undergoing minor medical procedures.
Popularly called laughing gas or N20, it is fast emerging as a drug in demand in Nigeria by young party-goers or fun-seekers to feel intoxicated or high.
The gas is often transferred from its containers into balloons, from where it’s inhaled for euphoric effects.
The NDLEA chairman, in a statement on Tuesday, said the decision to clampdown on those involved in illegal sale and use of laughing gas followed an analysis of the effects on those who abuse the substance.
He listed the effects to include dizziness; disorientation, headache; fainting spells light-headedness; hallucinations; falling unconscious and/or suffocating from lack of oxygen; and other neurological complications, especially psychiatric symptoms.
The agency said it will not hesitate to wield the big stick against anyone, no matter their social status, involved in illegal sale or use of nitrous oxide in the overall interest of public health.
It stayed that its decision will remain, pending when other measures are taken in consultation with other stakeholders, especially the Federal Ministry of Health, to curb the menace.
It urges parents, guardians and other stakeholders to be vigilant, alert and warn their young ones against attempting experimenting or abusing laughing gas, which poses threats to their mental and overall well-being.
