The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency says it has carried out a sensitisation programme on the dangers of illicit drug trafficking and consumption among youths in Ogun.

NDLEA’s narcotics commander in Ogun, Tijjani Rabe, said this in an interview on Saturday in Abeokuta.

Mr Rabe said more than 3,000 pupils and students drawn from different primary and secondary schools across the state participated in the programme between January and June. He said youths were increasingly faced with challenges that made them vulnerable to drug trafficking.

He said the command will take the necessary steps to remove the youths from the illicit drug circle.

“The students were sensitised to various illicit drugs stylishly pushed into the communities by drug barons and the inherent dangers in consuming them. They include cannabis sativa, cocaine, skuchies, codeine, and methamphetamine, among others,” he said.

He expressed concern about the high rate of Illicit drug consumption in Ogun, that the trend had become a concern, and that the command had been working relentlessly to rid the state of the substances.

“To achieve a safer, more secure environment, the youths will be continuously sensitised to prevent them from the illicit drug consumption and trafficking circle. We appeal to families, traditional institutions, schools, health professionals, and policymakers to support NDLEA by prioritising prevention and early detection to reduce illicit drug use,” he said.

Mr Rabe also said that the command had detained 157 suspected illicit drug dealers, comprising 127 males and 30 females, between January and May. 

(NAN)