DESOPADEC, Drug Abuse, Orerokpe, Central Market,
By Judith Ebitimi Kwamande,
The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), through its Department of Community Development and Public Enlightenment (CDPE), has taken its campaign against drug and substance abuse to traders and parents at the Central Market, Orerokpe, headquarters of Okpe Local Government Area.
Traders at the venue listened attentively as resource persons, Ms. Elizabeth Odisu and Ms. Honeywell Eburajolo, explained the causes, consequences, and dangers of drug abuse, particularly among the youth. They also highlighted signs and symptoms of children under the influence and shared remedies to help parents intervene early.
Delivering goodwill messages from Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and the DESOPADEC Board, Mrs. Chinenye Ezonfade, Head of CDPE, thanked the Chairman, Chief John Nani, MD/CEO Chief Festus Ochonogor, and Executive Director of Social Services, Chief Favor Izoukumor, for their support, describing them as true beacons of hope for the youth. She stressed that drug abuse has destroyed the lives of many young people, shattered families, drained household incomes, and in some cases, led to sickness, death, or separation.
While speaking with DESOPADEC correspondents, Mrs. Ezonfade noted: “Although the challenges are enormous, we are motivated by the positive feedback we receive from our people, that we are not wasting our time and the resources put into the campaign. As a Commission, we are able to contribute significantly to the psychological and physical wellbeing of our people in line with the vision of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.”
During the interactive session, traders advocated for stricter laws against drug peddlers, revival of communal child upbringing, and the establishment of rehabilitation centers to manage affected persons. The highlight of the campaign was the presentation of gift items and quiz prizes by Mrs. Ezonfade to participants.
Some traders, including Mrs. Philo Emajemite and Rev. (Mrs.) Angela Offia, prayed for Governor Oborevwori and DESOPADEC, asking God to grant them good health and wisdom to continue driving positive change in the state.
