NDLEA begins nationwide clampdown on ‘laughing gas’ abuse among youth
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has directed all its commands and formations nationwide to commence a clampdown on the abuse of the prescription drug, nitrous oxide, also called ‘laughing gas,’ among youth in the country.
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) who issued the directive, Tuesday, said the prescription drug ‘is now being abused by people who use it for recreational purposes.’
Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas that is commonly used for sedation and pain relief, more often by dentists and medical professionals to sedate patients undergoing minor medical procedures.
Popularly called laughing gas or N20, it is fast emerging as a drug in demand in Nigeria by young party-goers or fun-seekers to feel intoxicated or high. The gas is often transferred from its containers into balloons, from where it’s inhaled for euphoric effects.
NDLEA in a statement, Tuesday, signed by its spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, said ‘the decision to clamp down on those involved in illegal sale and use of nitrous oxide, follows analysis of the effects on those who abuse the substance, which include: dizziness; disorientation, headache; light headedness; fainting spells; hallucinations; falling unconscious and/or suffocating from lack of oxygen; and other neurological complications especially psychiatric symptoms.’
According to NDLEA, ‘pending when other measures are taken in consultation with other stakeholders especially the Federal Ministry of Health, to curb the menace, it will not hesitate to wield the big stick against anyone, no matter their social status, involved in illegal sale or use of nitrous oxide in the overall interest of public health.’
The anti-narcotics agency, further ‘urged parents, guardians and other stakeholders to be vigilant, alert and warn their young ones against attempting experimenting or abusing the substance, which poses threats to their mental and overall wellbeing.’
