LAGOS, Nigeria (FN) — Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said Sunday it arrested socialite Pretty Mike and more than 100 others during a midnight raid at a popular Lagos nightclub, accusing them of participating in a suspected drug party.
The NDLEA said operatives stormed the club in the early hours of Sunday following credible intelligence about alleged narcotics use and sales.
Agency spokesperson Femi Babafemi confirmed that 116 people — 90 men and 26 women — were detained. “Various quantities of cocaine, ecstasy, and cannabis were recovered,” Babafemi said. “Everyone arrested will undergo drug testing and profiling. Those found culpable will be charged in court.”
Among those detained was Lagos nightlife promoter and socialite Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu, better known as Pretty Mike, famous for his flamboyant lifestyle and controversial public appearances.
Videos on social media showed NDLEA operatives leading handcuffed patrons into waiting vans as strobe lights flickered inside the club. Witnesses described panic as customers tried to escape through emergency exits.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso praised the NDLEA for what he called “a bold step toward cleansing the city’s nightlife of illicit drugs.” He added, “We cannot allow our entertainment spaces to become drug havens. The government supports all lawful efforts to make Lagos safe.”
However, some critics questioned the agency’s methods. Civil rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong warned that “mass arrests in nightclubs could easily target innocent people,” urging authorities to ensure due process and avoid public humiliation.
Several entertainers and nightlife figures expressed shock over Pretty Mike’s arrest. Music producer Don Jazzy wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “If he’s innocent, I hope the truth comes out soon. We must separate real offenders from people just enjoying a night out.”
Club owner and promoter Shina Peller, a former lawmaker, called for a balanced approach. “We need to fight drugs without demonizing the nightlife economy. Lagos thrives on entertainment,” he said.
Families of some detained patrons gathered outside NDLEA offices on Sunday afternoon, demanding information. “My son went to celebrate his friend’s birthday; he’s not a drug user,” said a tearful mother who identified herself only as Mrs. Adebayo.
Authorities said the club has been sealed pending investigation. NDLEA officials added that the operation was part of a broader crackdown on synthetic drugs and narcotics distribution in major Nigerian cities.
“The NDLEA will continue to pursue its mandate with professionalism,” Babafemi said. “We encourage the public to join in the fight against the drug scourge threatening our youth and communities.”
The Lagos State government said it will collaborate with the NDLEA to introduce awareness campaigns and stricter surveillance around entertainment venues to curb drug abuse.
