Governor Alex Otti has raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of drug abuse in Abia State and the challenges in apprehending drug barons.
Despite these difficulties, he assured that his administration is committed to adopting a strategic approach to combat drug abuse and its related issues.
Governor Otti made these remarks on Thursday during a visit by the new commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Chidi Nnadi, in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
The governor noted that the growing drug abuse problem is closely linked to criminal activities, reflecting the evolving nature of the drug menace in the state.
He emphasized that his administration would continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to implement targeted actions to address these challenges.
“We understand the strong connection between crime and drug abuse. Many individuals involved in criminal activities often start with drugs. The accessibility and reduced cost of drugs have made the situation worse, with various alternatives now available,” Governor Otti stated.
He acknowledged that the fight against drugs has become more complex, as identifying drug barons has become more challenging. In the past, it was easier to pinpoint major drug offenders, but now, drug use is widespread in remote areas where people openly engage in drug consumption, complicating efforts to tackle the issue.
Governor Otti called for a dual approach, combining traditional enforcement with intelligence-driven strategies to effectively address the drug problem. He reiterated his administration’s support for the NDLEA and pledged to ensure the agency receives the necessary resources to carry out its mission effectively.