Deputy Senate Leader, Oyelola Ashiru and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun have said that Drug abuse will be eradicated in the country if parents and guardians devoted strict Monitoring on the activities of their wards.
Ashiru who encouraged Parents to bond closely with their children to enable them open up on their challenges to avoid resorting to Drugs.
The Kwara South Lawmaker and the Police Boss also called on Religious and Community leaders in the country to amplify their advocacy against drug abuse in their respective localities.
The calls were made on Thursday at the National Assembly during a one day programme, organised by the National Assembly joint committee on drugs and narcotics national assembly and the National Association of Nigerian Drug Monitoring, NANDRUM.
Ashiru who stood in for the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio urged all stakeholders to unite to tackle the scourge.
Ashiru lamented the glamorization of banned substance consumption on the media and practioners in the entertainment industry.
“Today, we must confront the harsh reality that drugs have become alarmingly woven into the fabric of our culture, often glamorized by media and entertainment.
“Yet, behind this facade of acceptance lies a grim truth drug addiction unleashes grave consequences for individuals, families and communities, Ashiru said.
Ashiru further highlighted the devastating effects of Drug Abuse in the country, he said;
“It burdens our healthcare systems, fuels crime rates, disrupts families, and hinders educational attainment.
“We must recognize that the stigma surrounding addiction only exacerbates social inequalities and diverts our focus from rehabilitation to punishment.
Ashiru urged Parents stand up for the fight against Drug Abuse;
“You are the guiding force in your children’s lives, responsible for instilling values, providing support, and creating an environment where healthy choices are celebrated.
“It is imperative that you engage in open conversations about the dangers of drugs, fostering trust and understanding, so your children feel safe sharing their struggles, he said.
Stiffer penalties await drug dealers and consumers in the country as disclosed the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics.
Isa Garuba who spoke on behalf of the Committee’s Chairman Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo informed that by the time the Senate concludes it’s ammendment on the National Enforcement Drugs Law Enforcement Agency bill the NDLEA will be further empowered to apprehend and procurement drug dealers and consumers.
Garba said; “The process where the bill is at the conference committee which by the Special grace of God “God willing ” the Senate will consider it and after the consideration they will now forward it to Mr. President for his assent.
“He wants you to understand this Bill, some people don’t know why this amendment is taking place by changing the act to a new one.
“If you look at the NDLEA , it’s not as strong as its supposed to be , so by the time this bill is passed by Mr President. The agency will be strengthened by having their funds as first line charge unlike now. Like INEC and Judiciary that get their funds on first line charge, the NDLEA will also be part of it.
Harping on the pivotal role of Parents in the fight against drug abuse, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun urged parents to inculcate effective communication between themselves and their children.
He stressed; “Parents play a pivotal role in combating drug abuse combating drug abuse and reckless behaviour among our youths.
“Parents are first line of defense against drug abuse, they shape their children’s values and choices , there is need for effective parent child communication.
Egbetokun who was represented by AIG Ahmed Amaru advocated for improved rehabilitation and reintegration of drug patients.
Executive Secretary of NANDRUM and Converner of the event ,Dr. Christabel Okoye lamented that the Nation’s prisons have been overtaken by Drug addicts.
According to the National Ambassador, National committee on Drugs and Narcotics the crime wave in the country is fueled by Drug consumption.
She rallied for increased support; “We need your support to carry out this sensitisation and empower them and get them something doing.
“Drug addicts need sensitisation and you also empower them to be busy.
“Talk to that person, adults or children, talk to community churches and gatherings. Drug abuse is a cancer worm and has destroyed so many children, youths and adults.
“Ignorance can never be an excuse. Drug addicts makeup so many people in correctional centers , Police cells and psychiatric homes.
“The way out of all this is sensitisation, giving youths skills and jobs and encouraging them until they are stable in life.
