The Narcotics Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Oyo State, Mr. Olayinka Joe-Fadile, has expressed serious concern over the increasing use of illicit drugs, especially cannabis, in the state. Speaking during an interview, Joe-Fadile highlighted a worrying trend involving the consumption of highly potent cannabis strains, particularly the so-called “loud” varieties, which have become more popular in recent times.
According to Joe-Fadile, the widespread use of Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana, in Oyo State has escalated significantly. He emphasized that these drugs, in particular the “loud” strains, which include names like Scottish Loud, Canadian Loud, and Arizona Loud, are a growing threat to the youth in the state.
“These loud drugs are even more expensive and far more dangerous than the regular Cannabis Sativa,” Joe-Fadile explained. The Commander warned that while these drugs may give users a temporary sense of euphoria or inspiration, they ultimately lead to long-term harm. He stressed that the effects of the drug “kill gradually and painfully.”
The rise of “loud” cannabis strains, which are more potent and often laced with harmful chemicals, has become a major source of concern for law enforcement in the region. These drugs are not only highly addictive but can also have severe mental and physical health consequences for users, especially young people.
The increase in drug use, particularly among the youth, is not just a local issue but a growing problem across Nigeria. In Oyo State, the illicit drug trade is becoming more entrenched, with cannabis being the most commonly abused substance. Joe-Fadile’s comments reflect the severity of the issue, particularly in terms of how it is affecting the younger generation.
Many youths in the state view these drugs as a means of coping with the pressures of daily life or as a way to achieve temporary pleasure. However, this misconception can have dire consequences, as Joe-Fadile warned that while the drugs may seem harmless initially, their long-term effects can be devastating.
“I am using this medium to appeal to the youths, who will become the country’s future leaders, to stay away from drugs. You may think the drug is giving you inspiration now, but it will eventually kill slowly and painfully,” Joe-Fadile urged.
The growing prevalence of drug abuse in Oyo State is also tied to broader issues such as poverty, unemployment, and a lack of adequate mental health support. These social challenges create an environment where many young people are more vulnerable to falling into the trap of drug use, with far-reaching consequences for their personal lives and the broader community.
Joe-Fadile also touched on the efforts of the NDLEA and other security agencies in combating drug abuse in the state and the country at large. According to him, the destruction of illicit drugs seized across multiple states was only possible through a collaborative effort. He highlighted the importance of working together with other security agencies, which includes the Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo State commands, among others.
One of the significant steps taken by the NDLEA in recent years is the joint destruction of drug exhibits. Joe-Fadile explained that in the past, each command would burn its own seized drugs separately, but now there is a more coordinated approach. The joint task forces involved in this initiative include strategic commands from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Strategic Command, Lagos Seaports, Idiroko Border Command, and Seme Command.
This collaborative approach aims to send a strong message to drug cartels and other criminals involved in the illicit drug trade. The destruction of over 1.6 million kilograms of seized drugs serves as a visible sign of the NDLEA’s commitment to reducing the availability and consumption of harmful substances in the country.
Joe-Fadile praised the unity among the various commands, stating that it was a crucial step in effectively tackling the drug problem. He noted that without such partnerships, the fight against drug abuse and trafficking would not be as successful.
While the destruction of large quantities of illicit drugs is an important step, Joe-Fadile emphasized that it is not enough on its own. The ongoing fight against drug abuse requires continuous efforts on multiple fronts, including prevention, education, rehabilitation, and stricter enforcement of the law.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and play an active role in combating drug abuse. He also pointed to the importance of community involvement in identifying and reporting drug-related activities to law enforcement agencies. The NDLEA has been working to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, particularly among youths, through various educational campaigns and outreach programs.
In addition, Joe-Fadile expressed concern about the role of drug trafficking syndicates that are responsible for the importation and distribution of illicit drugs in Nigeria. These syndicates are well-organized and operate across borders, making it difficult for authorities to fully eradicate the problem. The collaboration between Nigeria’s security agencies and international partners is critical in dismantling these networks and stopping the flow of illicit drugs into the country.
Joe-Fadile also stressed the importance of education in preventing drug abuse, particularly among young people. Schools, universities, and other educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping the values and behaviors of young Nigerians. As such, there is a need for more comprehensive drug awareness programs and support systems for students to help them make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
“We need to focus more on educating the youth, not just about the dangers of drugs but also about how they can better deal with life’s challenges without resorting to substance abuse,” Joe-Fadile stated.
Government programs aimed at providing employment opportunities, mental health support, and community engagement can also play a key role in preventing young people from turning to drugs as a coping mechanism. It is only through a multi-faceted approach that the issue of drug abuse in Nigeria, especially in states like Oyo, can be effectively tackled.
