Otti Supports NDLEA's Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking in Abia

Table of Contents

• Governor's Commitment
• Call for a Unified Front
• Stronger Legislative Measures
• Efforts in Rehabilitation
• Remarks from the Assistant Controller

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting the Federal Government's initiatives in the ongoing battle against drug abuse and trafficking.

The governor urged for a united front and stronger legislative actions to address this issue.

Otti made this appeal during a visit from the NDLEA’s Assistant Controller General of Narcotics, ACGN, Zone 12, Owerri, Mrs. Florence Ezeonye, who oversees Imo, Abia, and Anambra states, at the Government House in Umuahia.

While welcoming the Controller General, the Abia governor reiterated his position on the need for the enactment of strict laws to deter offenders, emphasizing that drug abuse is a significant contributor to violent crime throughout the nation.

He noted that many young individuals engage in the use and trafficking of illicit drugs, which contributes to youth unrest and various social issues.

“Upon closer examination, you'll discover that a considerable number of criminal acts are influenced by drugs, and until we confront drug abuse directly, other social initiatives will not achieve their full potential,” he stated.

Otti proposed that measures should be implemented to differentiate between voluntary and involuntary offenders, indicating that while about 20 percent of offenders are habitual criminals, 80 percent of crimes stem from social frustration and lack of economic opportunities.

He revealed that his administration is actively working to rehabilitate and empower those, especially the youth, who find themselves involuntarily involved in illicit drug use.

The governor remarked that if young people are meaningfully engaged, they will be less likely to commit crimes. He asserted that his administration is fostering an environment where criminal activities will be challenging to pursue.

He also mentioned that discussions are ongoing within the National Assembly to strengthen laws that will impose harsher penalties on drug offenders.

In her comments, the Assistant Controller General of Narcotics, Mrs. Ezeonye, praised Governor Otti for what she described as his visionary and pragmatic leadership.

Ezeonye characterized Otti’s administration as a model of collaboration and accountability that aligns with the Federal Government’s objectives regarding public safety and anti-drug efforts.

She noted that under Otti’s leadership, the NDLEA in Abia State has received unprecedented support, including its incorporation into the State Security Council.

She also commended the governor for establishing a suitable rehabilitation center, providing operational vehicles, and inaugurating the State Drug Control Committee (SDCC), which is one of the NDLEA’s primary frameworks for grassroots anti-drug education and enforcement.