The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chief Adebaku Sheriff Blessing, has thrown his weight behind the ongoing campaign against drug trafficking and abuse in the state.
The Speaker made the declaration when he received a sensitization rally led by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking Control, Hon. Oghenovo Andrew.
The rally, which made a brief stopover at the Assembly complex, was part of activities to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, themed “The Evidence Is Clear: Invest In Prevention.”
Addressing the Speaker and other top officials, Commander Ofoyeju emphasized that the sensitization campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
He stressed the importance of investing in prevention strategies to safeguard individuals and communities from the harmful effects of drugs.
Ofoyeju reaffirmed the NDLEA’s dedication to creating a drug-free society and called for continued collaboration from stakeholders to make significant strides in the anti-narcotics crusade.
In his response, Speaker Adebaku expressed gratitude for the NDLEA’s sustained efforts, acknowledging the profound impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society.
He stressed that the fight against drug abuse requires a collective effort from families, schools, and communities, not just the government and law enforcement.
The speaker stressed that increased awareness and education are crucial in countering the lure of drugs, which often leads to addiction and crime.
He reiterated his commitment to support the fight against drug abuse in Edo State and pledged to attend the upcoming World Drug Day event.
The rally, which commenced at the popular Ring Road and ended at the central motor park, saw active participation from officers of the NDLEA, the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), medical students from the University of Benin, media representatives, and civil society groups.
Participants waved banners and placards with messages like “Say No to Drugs” and “Protect Our Future,” underscoring the critical need for community engagement in the fight against drug abuse.
The procession aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of fostering a drug-free environment.
The event is part of a broader series of awareness campaigns by the NDLEA and the Edo State Government, all aimed at creating lasting change in the fight against drug abuse and its devastating impact on society.
