The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially inaugurated the State and Local Government Drug Control Committees at the Festival Hall, State House, Benin City. This historic initiative positions Edo as the first state to establish such committees at both state and local government levels as stipulated under Nigeria’s national drug control master plan.
During the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo, who was represented by the deputy governor, Right Honourable Dennis Idahosa, administered the oath of allegiance to the committee members, emphasising the importance of the event as a critical stride in the state’s commitment to addressing the societal challenges posed by drug-related issues. “Drug trafficking and abuse represent a complex challenge that contributes to crime, violence, and social instability,” he stated.
The governor urged the newly formed committees to devise effective strategies stressing that every member of the committee has been carefully selected for their expertise and dedication.
“This committee will develop strategies for drug prevention, provide education and awareness on the dangers of drug abuse, and deepen collaboration with relevant stakeholders in making the state free from drug and substance abuse,” Okpebholo added.
Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa, Chairman and CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), was the special guest of honour at the event and was represented by the NDLEA Zonal Commander, Zone 13, Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) Fidelis Cocodia. According to him, “The challenges posed by drug-related issues are multifaceted, affecting not only individual users but also families, communities, and our nation as a whole.”
He expressed his support for the formation of the committees, describing them as a reflection of shared commitments to create a safer, healthier community free from substance abuse. He emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to effectively address the drug challenges at the grassroots level.
Mitchell Ofoyeju, NDLEA’s Edo State commander, presented an overview of the Drug Control Committees, outlining the pressing issues of youth vulnerability, increased crime rates, and the accessibility of drugs in the state. Ofoyeju highlighted the significance of community involvement in tackling these problems, with expected outcomes including improved public health, heightened community resilience against drugs, and increased disruptions of drug trafficking operations.
The Chairperson of the State Drug Control Committee and coordinator at the office of the First Lady, Mrs Edesili Anani, conveyed her commitment to leading the committee’s initiatives. She pledged to implement school-based campaigns and media sensitisation efforts to promote a healthier, drug-free Edo State. In her words, “Drugs and crime are interwoven. This is because crimes are usually perpetrated under the influence of drugs.”
In his welcome address, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drugs, Honourable Andrew Efe lauded the initiatives of the Edo State Government for the commitment towards tackling drug abuse problem in the State. Similarly, Dr Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, the state commissioner for health, commended the initiative, recognising drug and substance abuse as a public health crisis that necessitates comprehensive public enlightenment, counselling, and rehabilitation efforts.
The inauguration was attended by various stakeholders, including local government chairmen, members from relevant ministries, NGOs, civil society groups, and religious organisations, all united in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State.
Former Deputy Speaker, Edo House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, who is a member of the committee called on parents and other members of the community to embrace the anti-drug campaign.
The establishment of these committees promises a collaborative effort toward creating a safer, healthier environment for all Edo citizens.
