The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria has begun a nationwide clampdown on the sale and use of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas.
The NDLEA said the decision to clamp down on those involved in the illegal sale and use of nitrous oxide was taken following an analysis of the effects of the substance on those who abuse it. These effects include dizziness, disorientation, headache, lightheadedness, fainting spells, hallucinations, falling unconscious, and/or suffocating from lack of oxygen.
The NDLEA also warned that nitrous oxide can have other neurological complications, especially psychiatric symptoms.
The agency said it would not hesitate to wield the big stick against anyone, no matter their social status, involved in the illegal sale or use of nitrous oxide.
The NDLEA urged parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to be vigilant and warn their young ones against attempting to experiment with or abuse the substance.
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas.
This development comes barely 24 hours after a Nigerian doctor called out rapper, Olamide, for sharing a photo with a canister containing nitrous oxide in the background.
