Sex Enhancement Drug Abuse Claims Lives Across Lagos

In the bustling rhythm of Lagos’ commercial streets, where danfo horns blare, traders haggle, and city life never sleeps, a quiet epidemic is creeping through the cracks — one that’s claiming lives in the most intimate of settings.

It isn’t a viral outbreak or a surge in urban violence. It’s a crisis of choice — born out of pressure, misinformation, and cultural silence. Lagos is witnessing a disturbing rise in the abuse of sex enhancement drugs.

This dangerous trend, hidden beneath layers of shame and societal expectations, is silently killing men. The culprits? Pills and so-called “herbal mixtures” sold in open markets and backstreets — often with fatal consequences.

Asiwaju Media gathered from reliable sources that numerous men have reportedly died during sexual encounters in hotels across the state — some passing away “on top” or suffering long-term complications triggered by these enhancement substances.

A consultant production pharmacist and Deputy Director at the Drugs Manufacturing Unit of a major Nigerian teaching hospital, confirmed to Asiwaju Media that the situation has spiraled into a serious public health emergency.

“What we’re witnessing in Lagos is an alarming dependence on unregulated aphrodisiacs sold by individuals with no medical training,” Umar warned.

“These street vendors are mixing powerful synthetic drugs like Viagra and Vega into what they call ‘herbal remedies.’ The result is a highly toxic brew with unpredictable effects,” he added.

The Deadly Mix Behind Closed Doors

Asiwaju Media reports that these sex-enhancing concoctions are being marketed as “natural,” “safe,” and “effective” remedies. They are sold under-the-radar in bus parks, roadside stalls, and neighborhood kiosks — often wrapped in black nylon or reused drink bottles.

But according to consultant, there’s nothing “natural” about them.

“These aren’t scientifically measured blends. They are crushed prescription pills mixed with herbs and, in some cases, unknown chemicals. No dosage. No oversight. Just guesswork,” he said.

These substances have been linked to severe health outcomes: chest pain, palpitations, sudden loss of consciousness, organ failure — and in many instances, death.

A Culture of Silence and Misguided Masculinity

Why are so many Lagos men — some barely in their twenties — risking everything for these risky stimulants?

Asiwaju Media observes that in a society where sexual performance is often seen as a marker of masculinity, many young men feel enormous pressure to “perform.”

Conversations around sexual health remain largely taboo, and rather than visit a doctor, many men turn to the nearest vendor promising a magic fix.

“This isn’t just a health issue. It’s deeply cultural,” Umar explained.
“We need to ask why so many men feel the need to prove themselves through untested drugs. What myths are we sustaining? What fears are we not addressing?”

Time to Act: A Call for Collective Responsibility

Regulatory agencies like NAFDAC and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria have previously clamped down on illicit drug hawking, but Lagos’ sprawling informal market system remains a major obstacle.

The consultant believes that addressing this crisis will require a multi-sectoral response.

“We need religious leaders, educators, traditional rulers, and especially the media to get involved. We must normalize talking about sexual health. We must debunk the myth that masculinity is tied to libido,” he said.

His warning is simple but urgent:

“No momentary pleasure is worth your life.”