A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, on Monday sentenced a 52-year-old woman, Yemisi Ajeboriogbon, to three years imprisonment for illegally dealing in Indian hemp.

The court however gave the convict an option to pay N500,000 fine in lieu of imprisonment.

Yemisi had earlier pleaded guilty to a one-count charge of illegally dealing in Indian hemp levelled against her.

According to the charge sheet, Yemisi committed the offence on Dec. 18, 2023 in the Agege area of Lagos, where she was said to have engaged in unlawful dealing in 10kg of Indian hemp.

The offence contravened the provisions of the NDLEA Act Cap N30, Law of the Federation (2004).

After Yemisi’s plea was taken, state prosecuting counsel, Mrs N.J Mamza reviewed the facts of the case before the court and tendered many exhibits.

Some of the exhibits were Yemisi’s statement, a request for scientific aid form, a drug analysis form and the Indian hemp seized from the accused.

Mamza urged the court to convict and sentence the defendant based on evidences adduced by the prosecution and the plea entered by the defendant.

Presiding Justice Daniel Osiagor consequently convicted Yemisi and sentenced her to three years imprisonment with an option of fine of N500,000.