Edo Launches War On Drug Abuse

Edo State has taken a decisive step in the fight against drug abuse with the inauguration of the State and Local Governments Drug Control Committee.

The move has been described as not only capable of curbing the menace of illicit substances but also promoting healthier living across communities in the state.

Governor Monday Okpebholo described the initiative as “a vital step in our unwavering commitment to stopping the menace of drug trafficking and substance use among youths.”

Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the governor bemoaned the rising tide of drug dependency and its impact on society,

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the deputy governor, Mr Friday Aghedo, Okpebholo pointed out that the committee’s creation aligns with the national drug master plan and represents a bold stride toward protecting Edo’s future generations.

Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), who was represented by ACGN, Fidelis Cocodia, Zonal Commander, Zone 13, emphasised grassroots interventions, awareness campaigns, and support systems as the backbone of the fight against drug abuse.

The Edo state commander of the NDLEA Edo Commander, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju disclosed that while national drug use prevalence stands at 14.4 percent, Edo state surpasses the average at 15 percent.

He noted that the state is one of the hardest-hit states in the country, warning that the trend has fueled crime and heightened youth vulnerability.

The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole pledged to make Edo a model in drug control through rehabilitation, youth enlightenment, and second-chance opportunities for recovering addicts.

Cordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, described drug abuse as a pandemic, noting that “you hardly see a crime without drugs being involved.”

She added that women’s empathy and influence must be harnessed in the campaign against drug abuse.