By CHRISTIAN OGOH

Some concerned residents of Agbor, Owa, Umunede and Abavoof Delta State have condemned the increasing rate of drug abuse in their localities and environs.

Those who spoke described the issue as alarming, urging government and other related authorities to curb the menace before it got out of hand.

According to Pastor Andy Imafidon, the issue of drug abuse among teenagers was an issue that must be taken seriously, blaming it on their ignorance and naivety.

“Most of them are lured or compelled to do drugs without knowing the consequences.

“Many of them have become addicts by bowing to peer pressure. Some of them have discovered virtually every substance both edible and non-edible that stimulates or makes them high.

“Nowadays, they mix all manner of substances, especially cough syrup. I may not be a medical personnel but am sure it has grave effects on themselves and the society in general,” he stated.

On his part, a medical practitioner, Mr Uche Asiwe, disclosed that the number of adolescents indulging in hard drugs in the locality was disturbing.

“After taking drugs, they will start chanting that school is a scam.

“The effects of hard drugs are very unpredictable because many of the victims have developed the habit of mixing different kinds of drugs to get their desired altitude,” he stated.

While saying that using nicotine during adolescence can cause harm to the brain, he stressed that it could increase the risks of being addicted to other substances.

Also speaking, Ven. Vincent Etumudor advocated that governments at all levels should clamp down on all hard drug dealers and their collaborators in the locality.

“As a teacher and a father, it is really disturbing and painful to watch our children trapped in an unwholesome way of life that will lead nowhere.

“The criminal activities in the locality are not unconnected to the increasing wave of drug abuse. Many of them have also found themselves in jail and hospitals after taking such drugs,” he said.

Continuing, he urged governments, nongovernment organizations (NGO) and well-meaning individuals to partner in the fight against drug abuse among the youths.

“I will use this medium to call on religious leaders to always make out time to speak against this menace that is gaining ground in society.

“Voluntary and religious organizations should also use strategic and public enlightenment measures to discourage adolescents and youths from drug abuse,” he stated. (Delta State News Bulletin)

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