In response to the alarming rise in drug abuse among Nigeria’s youth, the House of Representatives has taken decisive action by instructing the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to eliminate drug bunks across the country. This directive follows a recent report that has raised concerns about the extent of drug abuse in Nigeria.
The lawmakers’ resolution was prompted by a report attributed to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, which revealed that over 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15–64 are involved in drug abuse.
The motion titled ‘Call on the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency to Eradicate Drug Bunks in the Country’ was sponsored by Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo, a member representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State.
In his presentation, Ukpong-Udo highlighted the emergence of drug bunks in strategic locations across major Nigerian cities, which he argued poses a significant threat to society.
The House expressed profound concerns regarding the growing problem of drug abuse in Nigeria, as it affects personal development, societal values, and poses health and security risks. The motion also highlighted allegations of hotels and transport companies supporting illegal drug-related activities.
Ukpong-Udo pointed out that the rising issue of drug abuse is not only affecting the personal lives of Nigerian youths but also impacting the country’s development and progress. He underscored the damaging consequences of young people investing their finances, whether earned legally or illegally, in enriching drug barons. This, he argued, ultimately jeopardizes the future of the nation’s youth and undermines the overall development and progress of Nigeria.
The lawmakers referenced the functions of the NDLEA, which include collaborating with various law enforcement agencies and government bodies to combat illicit drug trafficking, as mandated by Section 3(r) of the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, Cap.N30, Laws of the Federation, 2004.
The Act also outlines measures to be taken, such as coordinated preventive and repressive action and the introduction and maintenance of investigative and control techniques, to address the issue.
Consequently, the House of Representatives referred the motion to the Committee on Drugs and Narcotics to ensure that the directive is followed through and enforced effectively.