By Muhammad Ibrahim,Sokoto
The overall objective according to the Sokoto state Commandant of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency,Malam Iro Muhammad, is to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving the goal of a world free of drug abuse.
This year, the theme ” PEOPLE FIRST: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention” aimed to raise awareness about the importance of treating addicted with respect and emphasis, provide evidence-based voluntary services for all, offer alternatives to punishments, prioritizing prevention and leading with compassion thereby combating stigma and discrimination against people who are addicted.
He said the transformed NDLEA under the leadership of Buba Marwa is already addressing major challenges evidenced in the turnout of arrests, seizures, convictions, sensitization programmes, strategic restructuring and partnering attracting National, Regional and International recognition and commendations.
He maintained that between 2022 and 2023 a total of one million, nine hundred and seventy three thousand twenty seven kilograms were arrested and seized from January 2022 to date.
These include Psychotropic substances, Cannabis Sativa Valium, Pentazocine injection and host of othe hard drugs.
“Out of 247 arrested persons 240 are males while seven are females out of which 58 were convicted and 35 counselled”.
He then assured the Sokoto state government and people of Sokoto they are out with renewed vigor to compliment all efforts aimed at surmounting the mirage of insecurity confronting not only Sokoto but the country in general .
In the same vein, Iro Muhammad said the prevalence of Sheesha, Akuskura and Methamphetamine is gradually gaining ground in Sokoto which informed them of continuous awareness lectures while awaiting for state Bi-laws to address the issue which they had already submitted.
Warning people who allow their premises for drug tading and consumption, he said such premises will be investigated and possible forfeiture to the Federal Government be made.
He then reminded the state government the need to urgently resuscitate the State Drug Law Enforcement Agency Committee which he deemed necessary.
