By Nkechi Eze
The FCT Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old dispatch rider for allegedly transporting nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”, believed to be intended for unlawful use.
Magaji Adamu, an alumnus of Gidan Waya College of Education in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, was taken into custody on January 20, 2024, following a routine patrol operation in Abuja.
As stated by the Command’s Spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, during questioning, Magaji admitted to working as a dispatch rider for a logistics company called Gonymble since December 2024.
He revealed that this was his fourth time delivering the substance, which was always handed over to him by one Mr. Danladi.
Adamu said Mr. Danladi would call him and instruct him to pick up the packages near a police station in Jabi, Abuja, for delivery. Each delivery reportedly earned him N5,000.
Magaji Adamu, who moved to Abuja in December, stated that he was initially unaware of the actual nature of the substance he was transporting.
He said Danladi told him the gas was used in hospitals. However, upon realizing its actual purpose, he cooperated with law enforcement and led officers to his residence, where additional quantities were recovered.
Recall that in 2023, precisely July 11, a sister agency had mandated a nationwide crackdown on the illegal sale and misuse of nitrous oxide.
It instructed law enforcement agencies to take swift action against its distribution in response to increasing concerns over its recreational use.
The directive came after a viral photo of a Nigerian rapper holding a balloon surfaced on social media, sparking controversy.
Many online users speculated that the image depicted the use of laughing gas, which has become popular among young people.
Nitrous oxide, commonly used for medical sedation and food processing, can produce short-lived euphoria, giggling, hallucinations, and lightheadedness when inhaled. However, prolonged abuse can lead to serious health risks, including memory loss, depression, lowered blood pressure, oxygen deprivation, nerve damage, heart complications
Although Nigeria lacks official data on fatalities linked to laughing gas abuse, the UK’s Office for National Statistics reported that between 2001 and 2020, nitrous oxide was linked to 56 deaths, with 45 occurring after 2010.
Sp Josephine states that in light of this development, the FCT Police Command warns residents, particularly those engaged in logistics and delivery services, to exercise caution and due diligence in their business dealings. Criminal elements often exploit unsuspecting individuals to transport illegal substances, putting them at risk of legal consequences.
“The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Olatunji Disu, urges residents to be vigilant and verify the nature of the goods they are handling to avoid being implicated in criminal activities.
“He emphasises the importance of conducting thorough checks before accepting deliveries, reporting any suspicious transactions to law enforcement, and remaining cautious when dealing with unknown individuals.
“He recommends that logistics, delivery service providers, and ride-hailing services maintain transparent operations and prioritize adherence to legal and security regulations to ensure a safe and secure environment”, she said.
