Ataoja Cautions Youths Against Drug Abuse
Ataoja of Osogboland, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, has cautioned youths in Osun State against the use of hard drugs, calling on security operatives to apprehend anyone caught.
The monarch made the disclosure on Wednesday during a sensitisation visit by members of The Drug Free Project to his palace in Osogbo.
Oba Olanipekun appealed to parents to take care of their wards, adding that they are the future and need to be guided on the right path.
The monarch, while urging those using hard drugs to refrain, said the result is counterproductive.
The monarch said, “I’m appealing to the people of Osogbo and Osun State in general to stay away from drug usage. And those who are already taking it should desist. Hard drug has no advantage, it can only cause damage to our well-being.
“I’m sending a message to law enforcement agencies. Anybody caught using drugs should be arrested, and I’m saying it here that I will not plead for anyone.
“Go to communities like Onireke, Oke-Bale, Ojude Mogaji in Osogbo and arrest those youths using drugs. Once you arrest them, take them to the correctional facility.
“I am also using this avenue to call on parents to take good care of their children. They are the future and we must guide against anything that will jeopardize that bright future. Our children should stay away from hard drugs.”
Earlier while addressing the monarch and his subjects, the Chief Impact Officer of The Drug Free Project, Dr. Ifeoluwayimika Bamidele, said the project is to see to the elimination of drug abuse and rehabilitation of those already engaged in the act.
Bamidele, who is an Associate Professor of Law at Afe Babalola University, urged state governments to support the rehabilitation and recovery of those who are using drugs.
“We are here to ask for Ataoja’s endorsement. We are going round the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, campaigning against drug abuse and asking for support for rehabilitation and recovery for young people who are currently challenged with the scourge of drug abuse.
“We are letting people know that drug abuse can change life and affect the future of our young population. We’ve had school projects for the last ten years, but we launched the drug-free project this year, and we’ve been to Ladoke Akintola University, Soun of Ogbomoso’s palace, Abuja, and Minna.
“For those who are currently using drugs, I want to advise them to go for rehabilitation and recovery. They should ask for help. I want to urge the state governments to assist in this aspect. And for those who have not been using drugs, I’m begging them not to go near it,” Dr. Bamidele appealed.
Kazeem Badmus is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience. A professional in journalism and media writing, Kazeem prioritses accuracy and factual reportage of issues. He is also a dexterous finder of the truth with conscious delivery of unbiased and development oriented stories.
