Ijebu ode: The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has called for a united front involving families, religious and community leaders to combat the growing issues of substance abuse, cultism, and banditry. Marwa emphasized the need for collective action during his keynote address at a seminar organized by the Ijebu Ode Council of Oloritun in Ijebu Ode, Ogun.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi reported that Marwa underscored the timeliness of the seminar’s theme, ‘Dangers of drug abuse, cultism and banditry among youths.’ Marwa highlighted the interconnected nature of these social vices and stressed that they require a unified approach to be effectively addressed.
Marwa pointed out that the rise in cult-related violence, rampant drug abuse, and banditry poses a significant threat to society. He noted that these issues, while seemingly distinct, are interlinked and perpetuate a cycle of destruction that must be disrupted for societal progress.
He expressed concern over the spread of cultism from tertiary institutions to secondary schools and neighborhoods. Marwa warned that these groups often lure young people into a world of violence and fear, under false promises of empowerment and belonging.
The NDLEA chief also highlighted projections indicating a 40 percent increase in drug usage in Africa, with Nigeria having one of the highest drug use prevalence rates globally. Despite these grim statistics, Marwa remained hopeful, asserting that communities still have the power to reverse the trend.
Marwa called on parents, religious institutions, traditional rulers, educational authorities, and community leaders to unite against these vices. He advocated for the strengthening of family units, safe educational environments, and youth development opportunities as essential steps in curbing these issues.
In his welcome address, Chief Adebisi Alausa, Chairman of the Council, praised Marwa for his participation, emphasizing the collective commitment to safeguarding the community and nation. Alausa reiterated the importance of addressing drug abuse, cultism, and banditry as pressing issues that affect society’s core.
During his visit to Ijebu Ode, Marwa also paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
