Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described drug abuse as a driver of cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes, and promised his administration’s full support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against illicit drugs.
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Key Highlights
- Governor Okpebholo says drug abuse drives cultism, kidnapping and violent crime in Edo.
- He said kidnappers often demand drugs as part of ransom.
- About 10 people died in cult-related killings shortly after he took office, the governor recalled.
- NDLEA chairman Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Marwa (rtd) described Edo as a gateway and cannabis-producing state.
- Marwa named Okpebholo NDLEA grand patron of the War Against Drug Abuse.
He spoke on Wednesday at the Government House, Benin City, when he received a delegation of the agency led by its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Marwa (rtd).
Okpebholo said the war on drug trafficking and substance abuse cannot be won by government alone. According to him, security agencies and members of the public must play their part.
“Drugs are totally our enemies”
He said drug abuse remains a major concern for his administration because of its link to crime across the state. “Drugs are totally our enemies, and we have to fight them,” the Governor said.
He recalled that the state lost about 10 persons to cult-related killings shortly after he took office, adding that cultists rarely operate without taking drugs.
The governor also said kidnappers often demand drugs as part of ransom, which, in his view, shows how deeply narcotics are tied to violent crimes.
Okpebholo commended the NDLEA for its work in the state and thanked the agency for the officers and men posted to Edo.
“We are ready to partner with you, we are ready to work with you, and we are ready also to support you in whatever request you make,” he added.
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Marwa names Okpebholo grand patron
Earlier, Marwa said the NDLEA is strengthening international partnerships to combat illicit drug trafficking.
He commended the state government for its support in the fight against drugs, as well as its backing for prevention programmes aimed at discouraging young people from substance abuse.
He described Edo State as a gateway state and a cannabis-producing state, noting that this made the governor’s support all the more important.
“We appreciate your efforts against illicit drugs. Drugs are the root of all criminality. We appreciate your laudable steps and support to the NDLEA,” he said.
The highlight of the visit was Marwa’s announcement of Okpebholo as the NDLEA grand patron of the War Against Drug Abuse.
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