India Rebukes Nigeria Over ‘Indian Hemp’ Term as NDLEA Busts Cross River Drug Empire
Indian authorities have raised concerns over the continued use of the term “Indian Hemp” by Nigerians when referring to cannabis. According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the term has become offensive and misleading to officials in India who no longer wish to be associated with the negative implications of the phrase.
Speaking in Calabar, Cross River State Commander of the NDLEA, Rachel Umebuali, said Indian officials recently communicated their displeasure to the agency. “They don’t want to be seen as associated with that name anymore. That’s why we encourage Nigerians to use the actual name—Cannabis Certi,” Umebuali told reporters.
Although she didn’t name the specific Indian agencies involved, Umebuali emphasized that the term “Indian Hemp” contributes to negative perceptions and stigma. She further clarified that on the streets, cannabis is known by various names such as Kanja, We-we, Igbo, and marijuana.
During the briefing, Umebuali highlighted several local government areas in Cross River State—including Akamkpa, Ikom, Odukpani, Yakurr, and Calabar South—as notorious hubs for drug cultivation and consumption. She revealed that the NDLEA has discovered and destroyed over 100 hectares of cannabis farms across these regions.
“We found that many of the cultivators aren’t even natives of Cross River. They collaborate with corrupt landowners and employ locals to run the farms,” she said.
The NDLEA has shifted much of its anti-drug focus to Cross River and surrounding hinterlands as cultivation migrates from states like Edo and Ondo.
In just six months, the agency arrested 208 suspects, seizing over 3.5 tons (3,475.65 kg) of illegal substances, mostly cannabis. Umebuali vowed that no individual—whether traditional, political, or religious leaders—would be spared if found involved.
“Fighting drugs comes with threats, but we’re ready. Everyone can arrest a drug offender, but they must immediately hand them over to us,” she said.
Umebuali also stressed the need for drug rehabilitation centers, stating that many addicts are helpless without treatment. She praised the support of traditional rulers and the state government but appealed for more public involvement.
“We must reach the hard-to-penetrate communities where drug abuse is rampant. These people need help before it’s too late,” she concluded.
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