Ogun Govt calls for renewed fight against drug abuse

Bankole Taiwo, Abeokuta

The Ogun State Government has called on relevant stakeholders to deploy people-centered solutions as a means to securing a sustainable triumph against drug abuse.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Kayode Oladehinde, made this call during a chat with journalists in Abeokuta, to commemorate the 2023 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, themed: “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen.”

Oladehinde described drug abuse scourge as a complex issue affecting millions of people worldwide across different age grades, emphasising the need for adequate care and support for drug abusers in the society.

He said the challenge of stigma associated with abusers is just as troubling as the abuse itself, saying those who abuse drugs may not be willing to seek help as a result discrimination from society.

“Many people who abuse drugs suffer from drug use disorder such as disruption to normal brain function, change in attitude and personality, truancy, job loss and prostitution. Sometimes they become addicted to drugs because of their innocence, which though is not an excuse, must be acknowledged.

“Unfortunately, drug abusers face stigma and discrimination, which can further harm their physical, emotional and mental health, thereby preventing them from accessing the help they need from individuals, family, friends, government and private institutions. I believe we must deal with this aspect of drug abuse just as we long to eliminate the problem,” he said.

While stating the State Government’s commitment towards the elimination of the scourge in society, the Permanent Secretary noted that stakeholders should raise awareness on the importance of treating people who use drugs with respect and empathy.

He assured that his Ministry would continue to collaborate with other relevant agencies at the federal and state levels, to ensure that stigma and discrimination against drug abusers are discouraged, adding that the effort would encourage them to voluntarily seek help.