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NDLEA Uncovers Cocaine Hidden in Traditional Nigerian Aso-Ebi Attire: Warns Public to Beware of Luggage Requests
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered another sophisticated attempt to traffic cocaine, this time concealed in traditional Nigerian ceremonial clothing.
The illicit drugs were found hidden within male caps known as fila and female headgears referred to as gele, both of which are common components of aso-ebi—attire worn to social events and celebrations.
This latest interception was disclosed on Sunday, May 18, 2025, by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. He shared a stern warning to Nigerians and travelers alike, cautioning against accepting such items for international transport on behalf of others, particularly to Europe and other destinations.
“In case you’re asked to help take as part of your luggage to Europe or elsewhere any aso ebi fila and gele (traditional male cap and female headgear), the latest seizure of cocaine concealed in such materials uncovered by #ndlea_nigeria will make you think twice,” Babafemi wrote in the post, which included visual evidence—both a photo and a video clip—of the seized items.
This revelation adds to a growing list of drug trafficking tactics uncovered by the agency in recent times. Just last month, on April 6, 2025, IREPORT247NEWS reported a similar interception involving cocaine concealed within the walls of multiple suitcases. A video posted by Babafemi on the same day captured NDLEA operatives at work, using knives to cut open the luggage to reveal the illicit substance hidden within.
The methodical concealment of drugs within culturally significant attire and personal travel items underscores the increasing sophistication and desperation of drug syndicates operating within and outside Nigeria. By exploiting unsuspecting travelers and leveraging symbols of cultural pride, traffickers are attempting to circumvent heightened security at international borders and airports.
The NDLEA has reiterated its commitment to staying ahead of such deceptive tactics through intelligence gathering, rigorous screening processes, and public awareness campaigns. Babafemi emphasized the importance of personal vigilance, urging citizens to inspect all items thoroughly before agreeing to transport anything on behalf of others—regardless of how innocuous or culturally familiar the items may seem.
As drug traffickers continue to innovate their methods, the NDLEA has vowed to intensify its crackdown efforts at airports, seaports, and land borders. The agency calls on members of the public to report suspicious packages or travel requests and reminds all Nigerians that ignorance is not a defense in matters involving illegal drug trafficking.
These recent busts serve as a sobering reminder that drug syndicates are actively seeking new ways to manipulate individuals for illicit purposes, and only through constant vigilance, cooperation, and awareness can the tide against narcotics trafficking be stemmed.