Justice Musa Kakaki of a Federal High Court in Lagos has convicted and sentenced a widow, Ezewuike Henrietta, to two years imprisonment for unlawful dealing in cocaine.
The 50-year-old widow pleaded guilty to a one-count charge brought against her by the operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). She was accused of illegally possessing 1.3 kilograms of cocaine.
NDLEA operatives reported that Henrietta was arrested on August 21, 2025, at her residence located at 25, Mozibawo Street, Ago Palace Way, Lagos State. Investigations revealed that she inherited the illegal drug business from her late husband.
The prosecutor informed the court that the widow’s actions contravened Section 19 of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, Cap N30 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Following her guilty plea, the prosecutor reviewed the facts of the case in detail.
Several exhibits were tendered in court, including the bulk of the seized cocaine, conventional statements, forensic test results, and other supporting evidence. The prosecution urged the court to convict and sentence the widow based on the evidence and her admission of guilt.
The convict’s counsel, however, pleaded for leniency, highlighting that Henrietta is a widow with children to care for. The lawyer cited multiple legal authorities and requested that the court consider a fine as an alternative to imprisonment.
In his judgment, Justice Kakaki sentenced Henrietta to two years in prison but allowed for a fine option of N6 million. This decision aims to balance justice and mercy, reflecting both the severity of the offense and the convict’s personal circumstances.
The NDLEA has reiterated its commitment to fighting drug-related crimes across Nigeria, emphasizing that anyone found in unlawful possession of narcotics will face the full force of the law.
This case highlights ongoing challenges in Lagos and other Nigerian cities regarding the proliferation of illegal drugs and the efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb their circulation.
Henrietta’s conviction serves as a warning to others involved in the drug trade and underscores the importance of compliance with Nigeria’s drug laws.
The sentencing also opens a discussion about the rehabilitation of convicts and the legal options available for those with dependents, balancing punitive and restorative justice principles.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
