As the world marks the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi urges concerted efforts to address drug abuse.
He made the clarion call in a statement issued on Wednesday via his X handle.
He calls on the government to take proactive measures to prevent drug abuse and provide support to those struggling with addiction.
He emphasises the need to address the root causes of drug abuse, including leadership failure, poverty, and unemployment.
He stresses the importance of rehabilitation for those affected by drug abuse and punitive measures for drug traffickers.
He cites the alarming 14.4% drug abuse prevalence in Nigeria, which disproportionately affects the youth population.
He encourages young people to avoid substance abuse and focus on productivity.
Obi stressed that the government must seek to save the nation from the menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
He suggested that the government should invest in rehabilitating those already caught in the web of drug abuse and stringent punishment meted out to drug traffickers.
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