The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Ebonyi, says it has convicted no fewer than 19 suspects in drug related offences with a total seizure of 164.728kilogramme (kg) illicit drugs from Jan to date in the state.
Mr Iyke Uche, the State Commander of the Agency, made the disclosure in a occasion marking the 2023 International Day Against Drug Abuse in Abakaliki on Monday.
The event tagged: “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention” commenced with a road walk from Abakaliki township stadium and terminated at NDLEA Headquarters in the state.
“The command has arrested 162, comprising 117 males and 45 females, with a total seizure of 164.728kgs of drugs. We have secured conviction of 19 suspects within the period,” he stated.
The Commander described the 2023 event as another opportunity for critical self appraisal of operational activities in ending drug abuses.
He noted that NDLEA has significant investments in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation in recent time.
“Let me state that, our doors of rehabilitation facilities are open at all times. We have prioritized treatment and advocacy on drug abuses have been taken to the grassroots across communities in Ebonyi.
“Dearly beloved, your are charged to drop the stigmatisation and discrimination that discourages drugs users from seeking treatment, a development that has serious socio-economic repercussions for individuals and their families.
“This is what the Year’s theme is all about. We must rid ourselves of any bias against those, who are drug dependent to be able to support and make permanent their recovery,” he added.
The Chairman of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mr Anasi Bernard decried the spate of drugs abuse, especially among young persons in the society.
Bernard urged members of the public to say no to drug abuses and save lifes among people