By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh.
In a significant move to combat drug abuse, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, joined forces with the Chairman and CEO of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Muhammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), to publicly destroy 25 tons of illicit drugs seized by the state command of NDLEA.
The event, which took place beside Confluence Beach Hotel, Ganaja, Lokoja, on Wednesday marked a significant step in the state’s efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking.
Governor Ododo pledged to keep Kogi State free from the scourge of narcotic drugs, emphasizing the importance of a drug-free environment and discouraging young people from abusing drugs.
The Governor announced his commitment to keeping Kogi State free from narcotic drugs during the official 2025 public destruction of exhibits by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
Representing the Governor, Commander Jerry Duro Omodara (Rtd), the State Security Adviser, stressed the significance of a drug-free environment in discouraging young people from abusing drugs. This emphasis, he said, is crucial, considering the severe consequences of drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities.
He explained that by promoting a drug-free lifestyle, the state aims to protect its youth from the harmful effects of substance abuse, which can lead to health problems, poor academic performance, and even criminal behavior.
Governor Ododo has vowed to eradicate cannabis cultivation in four Local Government Areas in Kogi State, notorious for this illicit activity. To achieve this, the Governor has pledged to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to destroy these cannabis farms and combat drug abuse in the state.
The Governor further pledged to support the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking within the state.
General Marwa pledged to protect Kogi State from the scourge of drug traffickers and users.
Represented by Alhaji Suleiman Ahmed Nigi, he emphasized the devastating consequences of narcotic drugs on human lives, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to combat this menace.
“I am delighted to be here today on this important occasion of the public destruction of 25 tons of assorted illicit drugs seized by the Kogi State command of NDLEA. This staggering volume of 25,000 kilograms of illicit substances is capable of further heightening the security situation in the country and Kogi State in particular if allowed to circulate,” he said.
He emphasized that the sheer bulk of the drugs that will be destroyed is a reminder to everyone about the magnitude of the drug problem in the country adding that the statistics from the National Drug Use Survey (2018) gives insights into this adding that just two of the facts are enough to cause a sober reflection. He added that 14.3 million Nigerians, aged 15-64 years, are abusing drugs.
He stressed that 10.6 million of the nation’s compatriots abuse cannabis, which makes Nigeria one of the countries with the highest number of people abusing the psychotropic plant adding that the statistics are worrisome when you look beyond the figures to their health and security implications.
The breakdown of the drugs destroyed included Cannabis Sativa, Tramadol, Rohypnol, Diazepam, and others. Commander of Narcotics, U.M. Yahoza, praised Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his tireless efforts to make Kogi State drug-free, noting that over 24 vehicles belonging to drug dealers have been forfeited.
Hon. Treasure Eunice Achimugu, Special Adviser to the Governor on War Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, commended Governor Ododo’s dedication to combating drug cartels and traffickers. The Governor’s commitment to this cause demonstrates his genuine love and concern for the well-being of the people of Kogi State.
As the state continues to work closely with the NDLEA, residents can expect a sustained effort to combat illicit drugs and promote community well-being. The public destruction of illicit drugs serves as a strong statement against drug abuse and a commitment to a safer, healthier Kogi State.
