By Tunji Wusu
Acting State Commander Mr. Peter Ogar reported that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Enugu State Command, has apprehended 122 illegal drug dealers between June 2022 and June 2023.
On Thursday in Enugu, Ogar made this statement while addressing reporters about events commemorating the 2023 United Nations International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The Day, with the theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Discrimination,” is observed annually on June 26 to promote action and collaboration in the pursuit of a world free of drug misuse, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Three women were among the 122 suspects, according to Ogar, who also noted that a total of 1843.5802 kilograms of various illicit narcotics were seized from the suspects during the time.
According to him, the drugs recovered comprised 1773.62 kg of Cannabis Sativa, 1.0 kilogram of methamphetamine, 22.17 grams of cocaine, and 62.89 kg of additional psychoactive substances.
The commander also mentioned that they successfully treated 45 substance addiction disorder victims and prosecuted 54 drug suspects.
Ogar added that over the time, the command publicly destroyed a total of 23,721794kg worth of illegal substances.
“It is a day of utmost importance to the global community in the continuous effort to ameliorate the consequences of abuse of illicit substances and make our world a safe place,” the commander stated in reference to World Drug Day.
Because it recognizes the significance of taking a people-oriented approach to drug policies, with a focus on human rights and evidence-based methods, giving priority to prevention, and leading with compassion, the subject is distinctly historic.
This underlines the necessity for our society’s deep empathy, assistance, support, care, and understanding for those who struggle with substance use disorders.
In order to combat drug misuse and illicit trafficking, he added that the command was boosting its partnerships with other pertinent parties, such as the media and the international society of substance abuse prevention specialists.
Ogar recognized the significant contributions made to combating the problem of drug addiction and trafficking in the state and throughout Nigeria by the state government, NDLEA Chairman Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), religious leaders, traditional leaders, and other non-state actors.
“I also want to let you know that the Agency is working to reduce drug demand while also reducing drug supply, which has to do with drug user prevention, care, and rehabilitation.
“The agency will not rest on its oars, but will continue to exploit all avenues within the ambit of the law to rid the entire state and country of the menace of hard drugs,” he declared.
However, he cited a lack of finance, operating vehicles, proper rehabilitation centers, client recreation centers, and inadequate facilities and logistics as among of the command’s biggest problems. (NAN)
