A 60-year-old man, Raji Michael Ayoola, who claims to be a pastor, has been arraigned at the Federal High Court in Lagos for attempting to export banned narcotics.
The National Drugs Laws Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said he conspired with others to unlawfully export 91 kilograms of Methamphetamine, a psychotropic substance, and 83 kilograms of Ephedrine, a controlled substance.
Ayoola was arrested by the agency’s operatives last February 10 while attempting to export the substances to South Africa.
Prosecution counsel, Mr. Abu Ibrahim, said the drugs were similar to cocaine and heroin in effect.
The alleged offence is punishable under sections 14(b) and 11(b) of the NDLEA Law of 2004.
Ayoola, a father of six, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
During trial on Wednesday, a forensic expert, Mr. A. Anadianei said he tested the powdery substances and confirmed they were banned narcotics.
The prosecution tendered Ayoola’s international and ECOWAS passports, six big bags containing the substances, a certificate of test analysis, all of which were admitted as exhibits.
Justice Jude Dagat adjourned till November 18 and 24 for continuation of trial.
