Disturbing trend has emerged in Nigeria, where individuals are intentionally lacing their friends’ food with marijuana and other psychotropic substances(drugs). This practice, often carried out under the guise of casual hospitality, has led to alarming incidents and raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of unsuspecting victims.
Mark Osagie, a Lagos-based logistics manager, openly admitted to engaging in this practice, revealing that he derives a “thrill” from testing these drugs on “newcomers.” He described instances where he laced a colleague’s food with marijuana, causing him to experience intense emotional distress, and another friend’s food with “colos,”(drugs) leading to hallucinations and erratic behavior.
These accounts highlight the unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects of consuming psychotropic substances without one’s knowledge or consent. The United States National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has documented the mind-altering effects of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and the risks associated with consuming edibles, which can take longer to manifest effects, leading to overconsumption.
The practice of lacing food with drugs extends beyond casual experimentation. Criminal elements also exploit this method to incapacitate victims for various nefarious purposes. Instances of “area boys” lacing malt drinks with tramadol to assault mentally vulnerable girls underscore the severity of this issue.
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The accessibility of marijuana and other drugs has facilitated the rise of this dangerous trend. Vendors openly advertise “infused” pastries, cookies, and other edibles on social media platforms, often using coded language to attract customers. These vendors operate with varying degrees of caution, some openly admitting to selling to minors, while others maintain a semblance of discretion.
Mental health experts, such as Dr. Bright Oris-Ohwerhi, have warned about the harmful effects of cannabis, including the risk of psychosis, heart attack, and stroke. Despite arguments about its legalization in some countries, the consensus among medical professionals is that marijuana poses significant health risks.
Law enforcement agencies, such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have acknowledged the rising rate of drug consumption in Nigeria. However, the accessibility of these substances, even to minors, suggests that enforcement efforts are not entirely effective. Dealers operate through clandestine networks, often exploiting loopholes and corruption to evade detection.
The experiences of individuals who have unknowingly consumed laced food highlight the devastating impact of this practice. From debilitating migraines to out-of-body experiences, the effects can be severe and long-lasting. The lack of regulation and oversight in the production and distribution of these substances further exacerbates the risks.
