Momodu Warns: Cannabis Decriminalisation Could Fuel Crime, Mental Health Problems in Nigeria

Former Director of Technical Services at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sule Momodu, has cautioned that legalising cannabis in Nigeria could lead to an increase in crime and mental health issues. The retired Deputy Commander-General of NDLEA, who is also a Fellow of the Security Institute, made these remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief. Momodu argued that the Nigerian variety of cannabis is exceptionally potent and should not be legalised.

Momodu stated that if cannabis were decriminalised in Nigeria, it would create a crisis that the country would struggle to manage. He specifically mentioned the high THC content in Nigerian cannabis, which he believes could result in individuals acting recklessly and engaging in criminal activities. Momodu warned that the consequences could be similar to those seen in countries that have decriminalised cannabis, where "zombies" are observed on the streets and people become "mad."

He emphasized that while there is a strong correlation between substance use, mental health disorders, and involvement in the criminal justice system, it does not necessarily mean that substance use directly causes criminal behaviour or mental illness.