Akwa Ibom NDLEA seeks collaboration with State NUJ to contain hard drugs spread

The Akwa Ibom State Commander, of NDLEA Mrs. Obot Bassey, has revealed that the agency has seized over 2,000 kilograms of hard drugs, arrested 799 persons, and jailed 181 persons in recent months.

She made the revelation during a courtesy visit on members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Akwa Ibom State Council, recently at the Union’s secretariat, Information Drive, Uyo Akwa Ibom State capital.

Commandant Bassey stressed the need for the media to help the agency create awareness about the negative effects of illicit substances, among the media and the general public.

“As we all know, the pen is mightier than the sword, I am here to collaborate with the media, represented by the Nigeria Union of Journalists members, to spread awareness about the dangers of hard drugs.”

According to her, drug abuse has become deeply rooted in the society, including secondary schools, noting that most foods served at social gatherings contain some elements of hard drugs, which is becoming a disturbing trend.

The NDLEA commander appealed to the public to create awareness about the dangers of hard drugs, emphasizing that it is a collective responsibility to combat the menace.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Amos Etuk, has pledged the union’s support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in tackling drug-related issues.

Etuk emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of drug abuse, which often starts in the home, where parents may be drug addicts and children may emulate their behavior.

He assured the NDLEA that the union will work in partnership with the agency to combat drug abuse and related crimes.

He also appealed for improved welfare and working conditions for NDLEA personnel, given the risks associated with their work. The chairman commended the agency’s efforts in collaborating with other security agencies to tackle crime and urged protection for informants.

“The Union is committed to maintaining professional standards in reporting, assured that, no member will engage in unprofessional reportage aiming to promote a safer and healthier society.