The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested popular Lagos socialite and nightclub owner, Mike Eze Nwalie Nwogu, popularly known as Pretty Mike, along with over 100 other persons, including former Big Brother Naija housemate, Tuoyo Ideh, during a raid on his nightclub in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The NDLEA confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, who said the operation followed credible intelligence about a drug-themed party taking place at the club, identified as Proxy Nightclub, located at 7 Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island.
According to the statement, NDLEA operatives had monitored the party since Saturday night, after receiving reports that a large quantity of hard drugs would be served to guests disguised as part of the entertainment.
“Our operatives, who were embedded at the party from around 11 p.m. on Saturday, disrupted the event at about 3 a.m. on Sunday in line with our Standard Operating Procedures,” Babafemi said.
He explained that during the operation, NDLEA officers recovered several cartons of Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, and Nitrous Oxide, also known as laughing gas, which has increasingly become popular among club-goers in Lagos.
The substances were allegedly found both in the hands of party attendees and in the club’s storage area. According to NDLEA, many of the guests appeared to be under the influence of drugs when the raid began.
“The operation led to the recovery of various quantities of narcotic and psychotropic substances, including Loud and Nitrous Oxide canisters. All persons found at the scene have been taken into custody for screening and investigation,” Babafemi added.
Among those taken into custody were Pretty Mike, a well-known Lagos socialite famous for his flamboyant lifestyle and controversial appearances at public events, and Tuoyo Ideh, a fitness trainer and reality TV star who participated in the Big Brother Naija ‘Pepper Dem’ season.
Both men, along with more than 100 other suspects, were taken to the NDLEA Lagos Command headquarters for questioning. NDLEA sources said the agency would conduct tests to determine which of the detainees had consumed illegal substances. Those found clean may be released, while others may face prosecution under Nigeria’s drug control laws.
Babafemi said the operation was part of a larger crackdown on drug use in Lagos nightlife spots, warning that the agency would not tolerate the growing trend of “drug parties” being organised in nightclubs and lounges across the city.
“This operation sends a clear warning to all club owners and event organisers that NDLEA will not hesitate to act on any credible intelligence of drug use or distribution at entertainment venues,” he said.
He added that NDLEA operatives have stepped up surveillance in major nightlife hubs in Lagos, including Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, and Surulere, to curb the sale and consumption of narcotics in public places.
“Nightlife in Lagos must not become an excuse for the open abuse of drugs. We urge entertainers, influencers, and venue owners to join hands with us to promote healthy and lawful entertainment,” Babafemi stated.
The raid on Pretty Mike’s club has stirred reactions among Lagos residents and on social media, with many expressing surprise at the arrest of high-profile individuals. Some users commended the NDLEA for taking firm action, while others called for fairness and transparency in the investigation.
Pretty Mike, who is known for his dramatic fashion statements and appearances with models and performers at social events, has not yet issued any public statement on the incident. His club, Proxy Nightclub, is popular among celebrities and influencers in the Lagos nightlife scene.
As of press time, NDLEA officials said the suspects were still undergoing screening and interrogation. The agency is expected to release an update in the coming days, including details of those cleared and those likely to face charges.
Meanwhile, the NDLEA has urged Nigerians, especially young people, to avoid the abuse of drugs, warning that the agency will continue to intensify its operations across all social and entertainment circles.
“Our mission is to protect Nigerians from the harmful effects of drug abuse. We will not relent until this menace is curbed,” Babafemi concluded.
