The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, has received a research report from a team of biomedical researchers led by Dr Success Eferavware of Benson Idahosa University (BIU), detailing the harmful effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly called ‘molly’ on female reproduction and human organs.
Presenting the findings at the NDLEA State Command Headquarters in Benin City over the weekend, Dr Success Eferavware expressed gratitude to the Commander of Narcotics, Mitchell Ofoyeju, PhD, for the support and cooperation extended to the research team throughout the study.
The biomedical research revealed that MDMA significantly impairs vital body organs, causing structural damage across reproductive organs. The findings further indicated that the drug contributes to pregnancy loss and has adverse effects on fertility, among other health complications.
Receiving the research team, Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju commended them for their exceptional work, promising to present the report to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (RTD) CON. He noted that drugs like MDMA, or Danabol, often referred to as “Molly” among young people, are among the substances commonly abused by youths. He emphasised that this research, conducted by students, further validates the dangers associated with drug abuse.
“Let me assure you that your report will be conveyed to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa. The involvement of students in this research will resonate with young people, sending a clear message that drug abuse is lethal,” Mitchell said.
Commander Mitchell specifically appreciated them for exhibiting a high sense of integrity and professionalism by returning the remaining tablets of Danabol to the Agency describing it as worthy of emulation. He urged the team to widely publicise the research findings and conduct similar studies on other drugs of abuse. The research team comprised Arheghan Yolanda Osemen, Irabor Ehizojie Great, and Ogor Treasure Efe.
Similarly, the NDLEA commander also played host to the leadership of the Nigerian Students and Youth Association (NISAYA) Edo State chapter and a Non-Governmental Agency, Social Watch Anti-Drug Abuse Advocacy (SWADAA). The National President of NISAYA, Comrade Ephraim Eghosa Osemwengi stated that the purpose of the visit was to establish a cordial relationship with the Command in promoting drug abuse prevention and creating greater awareness among students and youths in Edo State.
Commander Mitchell warmly welcomed the delegation and commended the leadership of NISAYA for demonstrating interest in contributing to the fight against drug abuse. He encouraged the students and youths to remain focused despite life’s challenges, stressing that perseverance and resilience are essential ingredients for success. While emphasising the benefits of drug abuse prevention, he called on the students to become War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocates in their respective communities.
The visit of the SWADAA delegation was aimed at strengthening collaboration between SWADAA and the NDLEA Edo State Command in the areas of drug abuse prevention, rehabilitation advocacy, public sensitisation, capacity building, and community-based interventions against substance abuse.
The State Commandant of SWADAA, Comrade Mrs Kehinde Osifo Ayo, in her opening remarks emphasised that sustained public awareness remains one of the most effective tools in addressing the drug problem. She called for stronger collaboration between both organisations and requested opportunities for continuous training and capacity building to enable SWADAA members to contribute more effectively to drug abuse prevention efforts.
Commander Mitchell assured the SWADAA team that the NDLEA Edo State command will partner with them because the Agency needs credible stakeholders to amplify the anti-drug abuse campaign.
