As part of his determination and effort to curb the rising cases of drug abuse among youths and teenagers especially secondary school students, the executive chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, yesterday led an awareness campaign against drug and substance abuse in the council area.
The event which held at the Local Government Secretariat, Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan, had in attendance students from various public and privately owned schools in Oluyole LG.
Speaking during a sensitization session tagged, “War Against Drug Abuse: Training The Trainers”, Olatunji spoke extensively on the dangers of drug addiction and its potential to derail their future aspirations.
He further emphasized that drug abuse has led to the prosecution of many young people, untimely death, and mental disorder among others, cautioning that seeking artificial solutions to problems often leads to even bigger challenges.
“If I were a drug addict, I wouldn’t be standing here today as the leader of the local government. In fact, if you engage in drugs, you will find yourself running from law enforcement agencies instead of seeing them as protectors. If you want to be a doctor, a lawyer, or anything great in life, the moment you start taking drugs, forget it. That dream is gone,” he maintained.
Encouraging students to embrace faith and discipline, Engr. Olatunji stressed that true power and success come from hard work and God’s grace, and urged the students to shun any form of friendship capable of detailing them from their parental training and the fear of God.
“If anybody tells you that drugs will make you powerful or wealthy, it’s a lie. Only God empowers and controls destiny. If you are a Muslim, pray five times a day; if you are a Christian, be prayerful and follow the teachings of your faith.
“The biggest people on earth are good leaders, and Governor Seyi Makinde is one of such great leaders who committed to ensuring the best for young people like you. That is why we are catching you young before it is too late.” Olatunji concluded.
Earlier, Dr. Olufemi Michael from the Political Science Department, University of Ibadan, provided further insight into the growing threat of drug use in schools.
He cited reports from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Commissioner of Police, warning that drug abuse among students is fueling criminal activities such as rape, theft, and violence.
“The Director of NDLEA has informed Governor Seyi Makinde that there is a serious problem in our schools. Secondary school students are now indulging in drug abuse and criminal activities, including smoking Indian hemp, marijuana, and other harmful substances. If this situation is not urgently addressed, it could destroy the future of our students and our state,” he cautioned.
Dr. Michael stressed that the campaign’s goal is not just to educate but also to empower students as peer educators.
In her words: “This program is called ‘TRAIN THE TRAINER’ because we believe that once you are fully trained, you will go back to your schools and educate your colleagues on the dangers of drug abuse.”
In her well articulated remarks, Mrs. Adetola Okuwobi, a Director at NDLEA, also sensitized the students on the severe consequences of drug addiction. She highlighted various forms of substance abuse, including Tramadol, marijuana, and other dangerous drugs, urging students to avoid peer pressure and make positive choices.
She also called on parents to be more vigilant in monitoring their children’s activities, emphasizing that early intervention is key to preventing drug addiction.
Present at the event were the Leader of Oluyole LG Legislative House; Hon. Azeez Morenikeji, as well as members of the House among other stakeholders.