By KP Reporter
In a ruling, a Federal High Court in Lagos has handed a 52-year-old woman, Yemisi Ajeboriogbon, a three-year prison sentence for engaging in the unlawful trade of Indian hemp. The court, however, provides an alternative for the convict to pay a fine of N500,000.
Yemisi, who had previously pleaded guilty to a one-count charge of dealing in Indian hemp, faced sentencing on Monday. The charge stated that she committed the offence on December 18, 2023, in the Agege area of Lagos, involving the illegal dealing of 10kg of Indian hemp, contravening the provisions of the NDLEA Act Cap N30 Law of the Federation (2004).
The state prosecuting counsel, Mrs N.J Mamza, presented compelling evidence, including Yemisi’s statement, a request for scientific aid form, a drug analysis form, and the seized Indian hemp. Mamza urged the court to convict and sentence the defendant based on the evidence and Yemisi’s guilty plea.
Presiding Justice Daniel Osiagor subsequently delivered the verdict, sentencing Yemisi to three years in prison. Notably, the court granted her an option to pay a fine of N500,000 in lieu of imprisonment, marking a significant decision in the legal battle against illicit drug trade in Lagos.