The Imo Government has urged youths in the state to shun drug abuse and criminal acts during the Yuletide celebration.
The appeal was made by the Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodinma on Narcotics and Illicit Drugs Monitoring, Chief Ezechukwu Obonna, during a sensitisation programme held at Obizi Community, Ezinihitte Local Government Area on Thursday
He explained that the programme, which was held in conjunction with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, was borne out of the desire to direct the youths toward gainful ventures and to also keep them properly guided throughout the festive period and beyond.
Obonna noted that as part of its commitment to a drug-free Imo, the State Government established a rehabilitation centre for victims of drug abuse, adding that the government is not resting on its oars to ensure that the fight against drug abuse is won.
The special adviser further urged the youths to avoid wrong influences capable of jeopardising their potential to be leaders of tomorrow.
He said, “This is part of our community sensitisation against the abuse and trafficking of illicit drugs, in line with a directive of our dear Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma.
“Most crimes are committed under the influence of drugs, hence the need for our youths to join hands with the government to eliminate the menace by staying away from illicit drugs and thus avoiding crime.”
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Mr Stanford Nwokedi, also urged the youths to be ambassadors for positive change in the fight against drug abuse and the sale of illicit substances.
The President-General of the Obizi Community, Mr Benedict Ujoatuonu, thanked Obonna for the sensitisation programme and also advised the youths to stay away from illicit drugs so as to secure a bright future for themselves.
A Principal Staff Officer of NDLEA on Sensitisation, Imo Command, Mr Kelvin Uzoma, said that youths, who do not abuse drugs, avoid its negative effects such as low self-esteem and damage to vital body organs.
(NAN)
