The First Lady of Ogun, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, has called for a ban on the sale of sachet alcoholic drinks in the country.
Abiodun made the call on Wednesday before the commencement of an awareness walk organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ( NDLEA) , Ogun Command, in Abeokuta .
Abiodun led the awareness walk against drug abuse to commemorate the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking and illicit Trafficking .
The theme for the day was ‘The Evidence is Clear ; Invest in Prevention’.
It is a global event celebrated on June 26 each year to strengthen actions and cooperation to achieve a world free of drug abuse and related problems.
Abiodun pointed out that the high rate of Illicit drug trafficking and consumption in the state was a pressing issue that needed prompt action.
She said, ” It is very sad that the state ranked high among others in drug abuse.
“The reason, among other factors, is the proximity of the state to the borders.”
Abiodun, who is also the Chairman of Ogun Drug Control Committee (OSDCC) said the infiltration of the sachet alcoholic drinks was worrisome because of their affordability and accessibility for the youths.
She said ,” Our youths are approximately exposed to these sachet drinks because of their availability and affordability .
“They consume the drinks in a high rate in order to get high , which subjects there lives to distress,
“Let us be reminded that these youth are the future leaders of this country,
” If we expect a better Nigeria, with viable development, we should strive harder to protect them from illicit drug use,” Abiodun urged.
