The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised alarm over the increasing rate of drug abuse in Akwa Ibom State, citing a disturbing trend of substance dependency among young people in the region.
Addressing journalists in Uyo, the NDLEA State Commander, Mrs. Obot Bassey, described the drug situation as “a growing public health emergency” and called for urgent collaboration from all sectors to curb the menace.
“The level of drug abuse in Akwa Ibom is alarming, especially among young people and students,” Bassey said. “We have recorded over 500 counseling and rehabilitation cases this year alone. The most commonly abused substances include cannabis, codeine-based syrups, tramadol, rohypnol, and increasingly, crystal methamphetamine — popularly known as ‘ice.’”
She revealed that NDLEA operatives have dismantled several drug trafficking networks within the state, including arrests made in Eket, Ikot Ekpene, and Uyo, where peddlers were caught with large quantities of illicit drugs intended for distribution in local communities.
“This fight cannot be won by the NDLEA alone. Parents, teachers, religious institutions, and traditional rulers must take responsibility. The family is the first line of defense,” the commander emphasized.
The NDLEA has intensified its grassroots outreach programmes, including drug education campaigns in secondary schools and community forums. According to the agency, many young people fall into substance use due to peer pressure, trauma, and unemployment.
Health experts have also warned of a mental health crisis linked to the trend. Psychiatric units in the state’s health facilities report a spike in drug-induced psychosis, especially from meth abuse. The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health is reportedly working with the NDLEA to expand rehabilitation services and mental health support.
In its ongoing campaign themed “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA), the agency is urging local governments to set up community-based task forces to monitor high-risk zones and prevent the infiltration of dangerous substances into schools and marketplaces.
Commander Bassey called for stronger legislation and community reporting mechanisms to ensure swift prosecution of drug traffickers and support systems for addicts seeking recovery.
Sources: NDLEA Akwa Ibom Command, Vanguard Nigeria, The Guardian, Premium Times
