The Lagos State House of Assembly lawmakers have raised an alarm on the threat of drug abuse in the country, describing it as an impediment to the development of the nation.
They also noted that the prevalence of drug abuse among adults and youths if not addressed and put in check would jeopardize the entire efforts of the Assembly in the establishment of a safe, peaceful and livable society.
They disclosed this at the seventh yearly constituency stakeholders’ meeting held at the same time in all the 40 constituencies of the state, tagged: “Increasing wave of drug abuse: A threat to nation building.”
Oshun Olanrewaju, A lawmaker, representing Lagos Mainland Constituency II encouraged all stakeholders, residents, parents, academia, students, religious organizations, celebrities, social media influencers, amongst others to work in partnership with the government for the common good of the society by saying ‘No to drug abuse and drug trafficking.’
He also stated that the welfare of youths must be given utmost concern as they are the future of the country, buttressing that they are the hope of the next generation that would build the state and the nation through positive contributions in sports, politics, education, arts, science, technology and innovations.
Martin Akpaka, a lawyer, from the Centre for Corrections and Human Development, also urged private organizations to show interest in the fight against drug abuse, emphasizing that sensitization on drug use should start from primary and secondary schools to enable the society understand the effect of drug abuse early.
Olakunle Oladotun, the chairman of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), was also present at the event.
Mohammed Jubril, member of the Assembly representing Ikeja I Constituency, in his keynote speech noted that drug abuse in the society had long been a source of grave concern to the leadership and members of the House, for which they had thoroughly discussed and passed various resolutions to address same.
In the same light, Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Wasiu Eshilokun Sanni, appealed to parents to support government’s war against drug abuse by ensuring that they prevent their children or wards from indulging in vices that may truncate or alter the attainment of their destiny.
He mentioned this at the stakeholders’ forum organized at Lagos Island Local Council Secretariat at Adeniji Adele, Lagos.
He also enjoined all stakeholders to partner with the Lagos State Government to rid the state of social vices by ensuring that as many youths as possible are taken away from the jaws of drug abuse that may end up wasting their lives and dreams.
