25.08.2026 09:52
Esther Ogunmabo, said to be 101 years old, has been arrested in Nigeria's Ogun State on suspicion of selling cannabis. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency stated that packaged drugs ready for sale were found on the woman, who is reported to be a great-grandmother. It was reported that Ogunmabo said she turned to drug sales after her shop, which was her means of livelihood, was destroyed in a fire.
The detention of a woman said to be 101 years old in Nigeria on suspicion of drug dealing has turned into a notable incident in the country. According to a statement from Nigeria's National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the woman, named Esther Ogunmabo, was arrested on Saturday in Ogun State in the southwest of the country.
Officials said Ogunmabo, described as a great-grandmother, was found with drugs in small packages ready for sale.
SAID 'MY SHOP WAS DESTROYED IN A FIRE'
In a statement made by NDLEA Media Director Femi Babafemi, it was stated that the 101-year-old woman was found with cannabis packages totaling 90 grams in weight.
According to officials, Ogunmabo said she sold the substances in small amounts to people in her area.
The incident quickly drew attention due to the suspect's age, and an investigation was also launched into how she obtained the drugs.
ALLEGEDLY, THE DRUGS WERE SENT BY HER DAUGHTER
Another striking detail in the NDLEA's statement was how Ogunmabo obtained the drugs.
According to the claim, one of her daughters living in Lagos ensured that drugs were supplied every four days. It was alleged that Ogunmabo divided the substances delivered to her into smaller packages and sold them to customers in her area.
It was reported that the investigation is also continuing through this connection.
It was requested that Ogunmabo be given counseling about the consequences of drug trafficking. It was stated that although the 101-year-old woman was released, the investigation into her continues.