The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised significant concerns about the growing problem of drug abuse in Cross River State, with many young people falling victim to addiction. This issue has become so severe that even the federal psychiatric hospital is overcrowded with youths suffering from drug abuse, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
During a street walk organized by the Niger Delta Students Union Government (NIDSUG) in Calabar, Nandi Roselyn Ada, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics in the Drug Demand Reduction Department, expressed her deep concern over the rising drug abuse among the youth. She pointed out that, though specific arrest statistics were unavailable, the situation is overwhelming, with young people visibly suffering from the effects of drugs in various parts of the state.
One of the most concerning aspects is the overwhelming number of youths in the psychiatric hospital due to drug addiction, with 90% of the inmates being young drug addicts. Ada also mentioned that less severe cases are often rejected to accommodate those facing more serious conditions, illustrating how dire the problem has become.
The abuse of substances like Cannabis Sativa (marijuana) is particularly prevalent in the region, and the narcotics officer warned that the issue is affecting not only the addicts but also the entire community. She highlighted the role of traffickers, who profit off these young people while keeping their own children safe from the same dangers. Ada urged everyone to take a stand against drug abuse, emphasizing that it is a societal problem, not just the responsibility of the NDLEA.
Comrade Scott Ogunsere, the National President of NIDSUG, pledged to continue the campaign against social vices, taking the message to other states in the Niger Delta region and across Nigeria. He called on students and youths to reject drugs, cultism, and other forms of crime.
Dr. Peter Odey, the Acting Governor of Cross River State, also expressed the government’s commitment to fighting cybercrime and providing opportunities for the youth to steer away from criminal activities. Through various initiatives, the government aims to engage the youth productively and deter them from drugs and crime.
This situation highlights the urgent need for continued awareness and intervention to address drug abuse and its devastating impact on the youth in Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.