The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, rtd, has called on traditional rulers and community leaders to thoroughly vet persons seeking to acquire farmlands in rural communities.
Marwa said the move is necessary to prevent drug cartels from establishing clandestine laboratories in remote areas.
Recall that in May, the NDLEA dismantled a methamphetamine laboratory estimated at N480bn, operated by a Nigerian-Mexican in Abidagba Forest, Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State.
Marwa said traditional institutions remain the closest authority to the grassroots and must leverage their influence to fight drug abuse.
He made the call on Saturday during the 10th Akinale Day celebration and the first coronation anniversary of the Towulade of Owu Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Adeniran, held at Baptist Primary School, Owu Akinale, Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State.
According to him, traditional rulers should establish community-based advocacy networks, as well as rehabilitation and support programmes for victims of addiction.
Marwa urged parents to return to core values of responsible parenting, warning Nigerian youths against substance abuse, describing it as a “false escape.”
“To our parents, I urge you to return to the core values of parenting, monitor your children, look out for early signs of behavioural changes and offer them the love and guidance that they need. Substance abuse is a false escape; it does not solve problems; it multiplies them, and it destroys your brain, health and future. Say a resounding No to illicit drugs.”
The NDLEA Chairman stressed that the country is facing a “silent but devastating war” on substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
“Drug abuse doesn’t discriminate, it knocks on the doors of the rich and the poor. We cannot fully protect our heritage if we do not protect the people who will inherit it,” he added.
Marwa described Oba Oluseyi Adediran as a monarch with rare leadership qualities, including empathy, discipline, love for culture and commitment to the wellbeing of his people.
Also speaking, former Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, congratulated the Towulade on his first coronation anniversary, urging newly installed chiefs to see their titles as a call to selfless service and the development of the kingdom.
Earlier in his welcome address, Oba Oluseyi Adediran commended the NDLEA Chairman for his support and the agency’s nationwide anti-drug operations.
The monarch also appreciated the sons and daughters of Owu Akinale for their cooperation and contributions to community development.
Investigate farmland buyers to stop drug labs in your communities – Marwa urges traditional rulers
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
