NDLEA Discloses Damning Statistics of Drug Abuse in Bayelsa
By Ere Peter
Statistical figures of drug abuse in Bayelsa State as released recently is disturbing, warranting intensification of efforts to curb the trend.
Official figures indicate that more than 607 persons tested positive to use of narcotic drugs, and about 459 suspects were arrested, in a certain period, while 584,171 kilograms of various illicit substances were seized.
These figures released by the Bayelsa State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) indicate that out of the more than 607 persons who tested positive to hard drugs, about 502 were males, while 36 females tested positive. This means that males, especially youths are indulging in drug abuse more than the female folk, many of whom are lured or forced into the act by their male counterparts.
The data showed that about 69 males tested negative, compared to the figure for women, which the agency said was in the range of 86 negative results.
Out of about 459 arrests made by the NDLEA, 313 were males, while females were 146.
The agency disclosed that 31 cases were prosecuted in court, and one conviction was secured, adding that 67 cases were still in court.
These frightening statistics were revealed in Yenagoa by Commander Kanu S. Chukwuemeka of the NDLEA Bayelsa State Command at a press conference marking International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Commander Chukwuemeka, lamented that the evidences of drug abuse in Bayelsa State, derived from its “Save Our Families” programme and surveillance, warrant joint efforts by all stakeholders to stem the rising trend.
Speaking at the event, which is the initiative of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 42/112 of December 7, 1987, the commander said it was meant to sensitive community leaders, teachers, students, and other stakeholders to support the fight against sale and use of dangerous drugs.
“The evidence is clear. Invest in Prevention”,
Commander Chukwuemeka stressed while highlighting the devastating impacts on Bayelsa youths and communities.
“We stand together to break the chains of drug abuse through prevention, treatment, and recovery for all,” he declared.
He reiterated the importance of collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, and international partners to curb the ugly trend.
The NDLEA Bayelsa Command outlined its multifaceted approach to tackling drug abuse in partnership with schools, families, communities, and NGOs. It announced that the command has established War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) clubs in secondary schools and tertiary institutions across the state.
According to the commander, the essence was to enlighten and equip young people with knowledge and skills to make informed choices, and avoid peddling and usage of narcotic drugs.
Efforts are underway to ensure individuals struggling with addiction have access to effective support, treatment, and environments conducive to recovery and rehabilitation, Commander Chukwuemeka told the press.
The command is committed to supporting individuals on their recovery journey and facilitating their reintegration into society, he further said.
In the past year, the command achieved significant milestones:
25 clients were successfully rehabilitated and reunited with their families, he recounted.
Commander Chukwuemeka expressed gratitude to the Bayelsa State Government, particularly Governor Senator Douye Diri, for donating two brand new operational vehicles to the command. He also commended the NDLEA Chairman and CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Baba Marwa (Rtd.), for his visionary leadership.
“We cannot do this alone,” Chukwuemeka stressed, calling for continued cooperation to address the complex challenges of drug abuse and trafficking.
“Together, we can create a society that values the wellbeing and dignity of all individuals”, he implored stakeholders.
The commander urged all stakeholders to join hands in building a brighter, drug-free future for Bayelsa’s children, communities, and the nation.
“Let us say no to drug abuse and trafficking,” he concluded, urging the audience to commit to prevention and recovery efforts, in order to combat the menace of drug peddling and usage.
The NDLEA’s appeal for joint efforts is pertinent considering how indulgence in narcotic drugs could be one of the potent causes of rising incidents of ritual killings, cultism and cult-related violence in parts of Yenagoa, the state capital.
