The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered plans by some drug cartels to introduce fentanyl into the Nigerian market. Fentanyl is an illicit drug that is 100% more lethal that Tramadol.
The NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed this on Tuesday, and cautioned the public to be vigilant as the drugs may be disguised as candies and eye drops.
He said, “We are not unaware of desperate efforts by some drug cartels to introduce to the Nigerian market, fentanyl, which according to the CDC, is 80 times as potent as morphine and 100 times more potent than heroin,” he said in a statement.
“This, they plan to do either in liquid or powder form and/or with misleading labels to target our youth population
- Advertisement -
“This they may also mix with other prescription drugs. The illegally manufactured fentanyl in its liquid form can come in nasal sprays, eye drops, or small candies.
RELATED STORIES:
Schools to close down nationwide, 8 children dead, and 23 Ebola cases confirmed
- Advertisement -
“As a result, parents and other stakeholders are advised to be vigilant, alert and warn their young ones against attempting to experiment with this illicit substance.
“Symptoms for fentanyl exposure and/or overdose include pinpoint pupils, falling asleep or losing consciousness, slow and shallow breathing, choking or gurgling sounds, limp body, and pale, blue, or cold skin.”
The NDLEA spokesman also noted that Fentanyl contributes to more than 70% of opioid fatal and nonfatal overdose deaths in the United States, and added that with the current rate of drug abuse at 14.4%, all hands must be on deck to curtail and stop completely the penetrations and distribution of Fentanyl into Nigerian markets.
Babafemi promised that the agency is not resting on its oars as it is doing everything necessary to curb the trend and safeguard public health.