Social influencer arrested over alleged drug trafficking in Edo

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 - The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command has arrested two female suspects, a social influencer, Praise Nwogu, 19, also known as Candy, and Ebong Emem Oghosa, 25, over illicit online drug trafficking in Benin City.

The suspects were arrested following weeks of persistent surveillance and intelligence gathering on how to dislodge the online drug ring involved in lacing cookies with cannabis.

The State NDLEA Commander, Dr Mitchell Ofoyeju, said both suspects were apprehended with various confectioneries that tested positive for cannabis.

“Praise Nwogu was found in possession of 12 plates and one cup of brownies infused with cannabis indica. Praise is the brain behind the online promotion with numerous videos on different channels.”

According to him, Ebong Emem Oghosa, who is believed to be the production expert, was found with 76 grams of cannabis sativa and 1.5 grams of Colorado (a potent form of cannabis).

He added that in addition to the illicit drugs, she was found with one big pan and a plate of brownies.

He noted that when they advertise their products online, they will not state that the cookies  are laced with illicit drugs, including synthetic cannabis known as Colorado.

Mitchel said the arrest underscores the NDLEA’s commitment to combating drug-related offences and ensures that the law is upheld firmly against those who choose to engage in the production and distribution of illegal substances.

“This should serve as a clear message to all perpetrators of online drug peddling that they have no place to hide,” he said.

Dr Mitchell disclosed that the command has destroyed 193,191kilogram of cannabis in the state.

Mitchel disclosed this in Benin when he received Hon. Dr Jerry Uwangue, the Edo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, who paid him a working visit in office.

He said the destruction was carried out in nine cannabis farms in the state from January 2025 till date.

“We have carried out nine major cannabis farm destruction operations covering 77.5122197 hectares with an estimated yield of 193,491.1kg since January 2025.