Edo moves to curb rising youth drug abuse, vows tougher enforcement

The Edo State Government has expressed concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people in the state, pledging to intensify efforts aimed at tackling the growing social challenge.

Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Festus Ebea, raised the concern during the state’s monthly media briefing in Benin City, where he outlined ongoing measures to strengthen security and social stability across Edo.

Ebea described the rise in substance abuse among youths as a disturbing trend with far-reaching implications for public safety, community development, and the future of the state’s younger population.

He noted that the government is working closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders to address the problem before it escalates further.

According to him, the state administration maintains a zero-tolerance stance against activities capable of undermining social order, stressing that drug abuse has increasingly become a contributing factor to criminal behaviour and other societal challenges.

The commissioner also condemned the recent self-kidnapping incident uncovered in the state, describing it as a dangerous development capable of eroding public trust and creating unnecessary panic.

He said the government would continue to support law enforcement agencies in ensuring that individuals involved in such acts are brought to justice.

Ebea noted that the government has made significant investments in strengthening the state’s security architecture, including improved collaboration among security agencies and enhanced surveillance measures aimed at safeguarding residents.

He emphasized that efforts to combat drug abuse would involve a combination of enforcement, public enlightenment, community engagement, and rehabilitation initiatives targeted at vulnerable groups, particularly young people.

The commissioner urged parents, schools, religious institutions, and community leaders to play active roles in identifying and addressing substance abuse among youths, stressing that government intervention alone would not be sufficient to tackle the challenge.

He further assured residents that the administration remains committed to protecting lives and property while creating an environment that supports responsible youth development and economic growth.

The renewed focus on combating drug abuse forms part of the broader strategy of the Edo State Government to strengthen public safety, promote social well-being, and address emerging threats to sustainable development across the state.