Okpebholo Pledges Government’s Full Support to NDLEA as Marwa Names Governor Grand Patron of War Against Drug Abuse

OKPEBHOLO: DRUG ABUSE FUELS CULTISM, KIDNAPPING IN EDO



Okpebholo Pledges Government’s Full Support to NDLEA as Marwa Names Governor Grand Patron of War Against Drug Abuse

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has identified drug abuse as a major driver of cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes, pledging his administration’s unwavering support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in combating illicit drugs and substance abuse across the state.

The governor made this commitment on Wednesday at Government House, Benin City, while receiving a delegation of the NDLEA led by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier-General Mohammed Marwa.

Okpebholo stressed that the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse requires collective responsibility, noting that government, security agencies and citizens must work together to tackle the menace.

“Drugs are totally our enemies, and we have to fight them,” the governor declared.

He recalled that Edo State recorded about 10 cult-related deaths shortly after his assumption of office, observing that drug consumption was closely associated with the activities of cultists and other criminal elements.

The governor also linked drug abuse to kidnapping, noting that the demand for drugs during ransom negotiations further highlights the connection between narcotics and violent criminal activities.

Commending the NDLEA for its operational efforts in Edo, Okpebholo expressed appreciation for the officers and personnel deployed to the state, assuring the agency of his administration’s readiness to strengthen collaboration and provide necessary support.

“They have been doing actively well. We are ready to partner with you, we are ready to work with you, and we are ready also to support you in whatever request you make,” he assured.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting programmes and interventions aimed at eliminating drug abuse, disrupting drug trafficking networks and strengthening public safety across Edo State.

Earlier, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier-General Mohammed Marwa, commended the Okpebholo administration for its developmental strides and sustained support for the agency’s anti-drug initiatives.

Marwa disclosed that the NDLEA was intensifying international partnerships and strategic collaborations to strengthen the fight against illicit drug trafficking, while also expanding preventive programmes to discourage young people from substance abuse.

Describing Edo as a strategic gateway state and a cannabis-producing state, the NDLEA boss underscored the importance of the governor’s support in achieving meaningful progress in the war against drugs.

He commended the governor’s commitment to tackling drug-related challenges, describing drugs as a major contributor to criminality and appreciating the state government’s support for the agency.

The highlight of the visit was the formal announcement of Governor Monday Okpebholo as the NDLEA Grand Patron of the War Against Drug Abuse, a recognition that further reinforces the partnership between the Edo State Government and the agency in promoting a safer, healthier and more secure society

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