In a dramatic twist to Lagos’ buzzing nightlife scene, the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has ordered the interim forfeiture of a high-profile property linked to popular socialite and nightlife entrepreneur, Mike Nwalie, better known as Pretty Mike, following serious allegations of drug storage and distribution within the premises.
Justice Musa Kakaki issued the order on Tuesday after carefully reviewing an ex parte application filed by Mr. Buhari Abdulahi, counsel to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The court ruling has since sent shockwaves across the entertainment and hospitality industries, as the case involves one of Lagos’ most talked-about party destinations — Proxy Lagos Nightclub, located at No. 7 Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island.
According to documents presented before the court, the NDLEA accused the nightclub of being used as a storage and distribution centre for 169 cylinders (weighing 384.662 kilograms) of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, and an additional 200 grams of cannabis sativa. Both substances are classified as controlled drugs under Nigerian law.
The NDLEA further disclosed that the nightclub is jointly owned by Pretty Mike and one Joachim Hillary, who allegedly conspired to organize a large-scale “drug party” using the facility as a base of operations.
In a detailed affidavit submitted to the court, Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Nasiru Garba Bungudu, stated that credible intelligence was received in October 2025 about an upcoming rave at the club that was expected to feature heavy drug use and distribution. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, a team of NDLEA operatives from the Lagos Strategic Command reportedly stormed the venue around midnight on October 26, 2025.
What they found shocked even seasoned narcotics officers. The raid led to the seizure of hundreds of cylinders of nitrous oxide and several packets of cannabis. Over 200 individuals were arrested during the midnight operation, including the club’s co-owners and several staff members.
Subsequent laboratory tests confirmed that the seized materials were indeed controlled substances, strengthening the agency’s case against the defendants. The NDLEA also claimed that Proxy Nightclub had previously been under surveillance due to recurring reports of drug-related activities, which allegedly took place with the knowledge and consent of its management.
Following the review of the evidence, Justice Kakaki ruled in favor of the NDLEA’s request, ordering that the nightclub be temporarily forfeited to the Federal Government. The judge also directed that all operations and events at the premises remain suspended pending the conclusion of investigations and legal proceedings.
The ruling has since stirred reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing shock and disbelief. Pretty Mike, known for his eccentric public appearances and controversial lifestyle, has long been a familiar face at high-end social events across Lagos. His involvement in this case has reignited debates about the link between Lagos’ nightlife culture and rising drug use among young partygoers.
Legal analysts note that the interim forfeiture does not yet amount to a permanent seizure of the property. However, if the NDLEA provides substantial evidence linking the club to drug-related activities, the Federal Government could assume full ownership of the property.
The case has been adjourned to January 28, 2026, for further hearing, as Nigerians await the next chapter in what is fast becoming one of the country’s most high-profile nightlife scandals.
