The Imo Government has advised youths of the state to shun drug abuse so as to avoid the tendency of criminality as they celebrate Christmas.
The Special Adviser to Gov. Hope Uzodinma on Narcotics and Illicit Drugs Monitoring, Chief Ezechukwu Obonna, gave the advice during a sensitisation program which he organised at Obizi community, Ezinihitte council area of Imo, on Thursday.
Obonna said that the sensitisation, organised in conjunction with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), was borne out of the desire to direct the youths towards gainful ventures and keep them properly guided throughout the festive period and beyond.
He added that as part of its commitment to a drug free Imo, the Imo state government has established a rehabilitation centre for victims of drug abuse.
According to him, government is not resting on its oars in ensuring that the fight against drug abuse is won.
He urged the youths to avoid wrong influences capable of jeopardizing their future, adding that the youths are the leaders of tomorrow.
“ This is part of our community sensitisation against the abuse and trafficking of illicit drugs, in line with a directive of our dear governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma.
“ Most crimes are committed under the influence of drugs, hence the need for our youths to join hands with government to eliminate the menace by staying away from illicit drugs and thus avoid crime “ he said.
Speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Uzodinma on Public Enlightenment, Mr Stanford Nwokedi, urged the youths to be ambassadors for positive change in the fight against drug abuse and sale of illicit substances.
Also, President-General of Obizi community, Mr Benedict Ujoatuonu, a businessman, thanked Obonna for the sensitisation and advised the youths to stay away from illicit drugs so as to secure a bright future.
Mr Kelvin Uzoma, a Principal Staff Officer of the NDLEA in Imo, on sensitisation, said youths who do not abuse drugs avoid its negative effects such as low self esteem and damage of vital body organs.
One of the participants, Mr Bethel Chigozie, a university undergraduate, thanked Obonna and the NDLEA for the enlightenment and promised to take the message home.
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