Eben Enasco Reporting…
All over the world, Abusing drugs is perceived a threat to individuals, Families, Communities and even the national stability.
Concerned by the explicit dangers of the substance abuse that seems to be eroding the fabrics of the Society, Edo State Government at a one-day sensitization to mark this year International day, held recently in Benin City, said, it has put up mechanisms to step up the fight Against Social ills in the Society.
The Governor of the State, Godwin Obaseki, who was represented at the sensitization event by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Gender issues, DORCAS IDEHEN, urged the Society to act decisively to prevent the heightening spate of illicit Drug Consumption.
Governor Obaseki stressed the role of Parents, Various Religious groups, Traditional institutions, Non State actors, Labour and other relevant groups in ensuring a substance Abuse-free Society.
The governor ascribed drug abuse to parental upbringings leading to most social vices.
He noted that, State government on its efforts to curb the spread, established a committee headed by the wife of the governor, Her excellency Betsy Obaseki to tackle drug abuse and domestic violence in the state.
Participants, Purpose Osamwonyi and Grace Obakina were unanimous in their takes while taken stock on possible factors enhancing drug abuse.
They appealed for continued participation by parents and church leaders to engage teenagers and direct them towards meritorious ventures.
They also admonished those handling Children to always inform them of the danger posed by illicit drugs.
According to 2018 research statistics, it was revealed that fourteen point eight percents of the Nigerian population are involved in the illegal use of drugs which case, one out of Ten drug abusers are females.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme ”Share Facts on Drugs, Save Lives” is globally marked, June 26 annually, to boost and form cooperations in achieving the goal of a world free of drug abuse.