Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has set up the State and Local Government Drug Control Committee to mobilize the war on drug abuse in the state.
Through his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the governor described the action as a groundbreaking step to curb drug trafficking and drug abuse among youths. He highlighted that the setting up of the committee is also in accordance with the national drug masterplan and is a bold commitment to safeguarding future generations.
The NDLEA Chairman, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), in a statement by the Zonal Commander, ACGN Fidelis Cocodia, placed emphasis on grassroots intervention, enlightenment, and support systems as the major in curbing drug abuse.
Edo State NDLEA Commander Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju revealed that although the drug use prevalence in the country is 14.4 percent, Edo is above average at 15 percent and therefore among the worst-affected states. He warned that the epidemic has fueled crime and heightened youth vulnerability.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, pledged to make Edo a model of drug control by rehabilitating drug victims, sensitizing youths, and second chance for recovering addicts.
Also speaking, the Office of the First Lady Coordinator, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, termed drug abuse a pandemic, noting that “there is hardly a crime without drugs.” She begged that women’s compassion and strength are exercised to their fullest in the campaign.
