Drug Epidemic Among Youths Is Breeding Crime And Cultism, CADAKC Convener Tells FG To Act Now

Drug Epidemic Among Youths Is Breeding Crime And Cultism, CADAKC Convener Tells FG To Act Now
By prince Benson Davies

A leading community advocate and media practitioner, Otunba Olufemi Orioye, has raised the alarm over what he described as a worsening drug epidemic among Nigerian youths, warning that the trend is directly fueling crime, cultism and violent restiveness across the country.

Orioye, who is the convener of Campaign Against Drug Abuse, Kidnapping and Cultism, CADAKC, made the call in a statement issued on Monday in Lagos. He said the menace has moved beyond isolated cases and now poses a direct threat to the future of Nigeria’s young population.

He stated that the responsibility of tackling illicit drugs can no longer rest solely on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. He called on the Federal Government to order an immediate joint security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other agencies working alongside the NDLEA.

According to him, the increasing consumption of drugs by young people is the root of many other social problems. He explained that cult clashes, kidnapping, armed robbery and youth agitation in many communities are all linked to a growing drug culture that is now entrenched around schools, parks and market areas.

Orioye also challenged parents and guardians to take responsibility. He referenced the recent arrest of Mrs Iyabo Sowunmi by officials of the Ibara Correctional Centre, Abeokuta, for allegedly attempting to smuggle drugs to her son on death row. He described the incident as unfortunate and called on parents to be role models of discipline rather than enablers of criminal behavior.

He commended the NDLEA for its sustained efforts but urged the agency to intensify raids on known drug spots in Lagos and other states. He said the war must move to the doorsteps of dealers and target the hideouts where young people are recruited.

The CADAKC convener further called for stronger intelligence sharing among security agencies and a shift in focus to those financing and importing drugs, not just street dealers and users.

He said government must also invest in prevention and rehabilitation. He asked for aggressive anti-drug campaigns in schools, tertiary institutions and communities to educate youths on the health and social consequences of abuse.

Orioye appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, teachers and the media to join the campaign. He said the fight against drug abuse requires a united front to protect the next generation.

He reaffirmed CADAKC’s commitment to support efforts aimed at ending drug abuse, kidnapping and cultism, and expressed optimism that a coordinated response will help dismantle drug networks and secure a better future for Nigerian youths.