By Miracle Ovie,
Prominent politician and youth development advocate, Hon. Stella Erhuvwuoghene Okotete, has raised the alarm over the rising incidence of drug abuse in Agbarho and across Delta State, warning that the growing menace poses a grave threat to the future of young people and the overall development of society.
Okotete made the declaration while announcing plans to launch a comprehensive Drug Abuse Awareness Campaign and inaugurate the Agbarho Drug Abuse Task Force in partnership with community leaders and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Describing substance abuse as a major social challenge, she lamented its devastating impact on youths, families, and communities, stressing that urgent and coordinated action was needed to reverse the trend.
"Drug abuse is destroying our future. We can no longer remain silent while our young people fall victim to substances that threaten their lives and limit their potential," she said.
According to Okotete, the increasing involvement of young people in substance abuse has robbed many of their aspirations, fueled crime and insecurity, weakened family values, and slowed community development. She noted that the situation requires the collective intervention of stakeholders to prevent further damage to the social and economic fabric of society.
She explained that the planned awareness campaign would focus on educating residents, particularly youths, on the dangers of drug abuse while encouraging healthy lifestyles and responsible choices. The initiative, she said, is designed to create greater awareness and mobilise community action against the menace.
Okotete disclosed that the programme is being organized in collaboration with His Royal Majesty, the Osuvie of Agbarho Kingdom, the President-General of the Agbarho Urhobo Improvement Union (AUIU), community stakeholders, and the NDLEA as part of a broader strategy to tackle drug-related challenges within the kingdom.
"The fight against drug abuse cannot be left to government agencies alone. Parents, schools, religious institutions, community leaders, and security agencies all have critical roles to play in protecting our youths and securing the future of our communities," she stated.
The former Executive Director emphasized that the establishment of the Agbarho Drug Abuse Task Force would strengthen grassroots efforts to identify and address drug-related activities, support law enforcement agencies, and promote a safer environment for residents.
She called on members of the community to embrace and support the initiative, expressing confidence that sustained awareness, collaboration, and decisive action would significantly reduce drug abuse and help create opportunities for young people to thrive.
Okotete added that with the support of all stakeholders, Agbarho can become a model community in the fight against substance abuse and youth-related social vices, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.
