By Sunday Apah
The Delta State Government has called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to ramp up efforts to dismantle drug cartels and target dealers and suppliers operating within the state.
During a courtesy visit from the new State Commander of the NDLEA, CDR. Halilu Hamidu, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Director General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, expressed the Governor’s unwavering commitment to establishing a Drug-Free Delta.
Dr. Oghenesivbe highlighted the urgent need for the NDLEA to implement innovative strategies in combating drug abuse and urged Commander Hamidu to adopt a results-oriented approach to eliminate drug cartels and suppliers in Delta State.
“It’s crucial to shift from sporadic surveillance to a consistent emphasis on intelligence gathering and substantial action against drug cartels. Without traffickers and sellers, there will not be victims,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of strategically targeting key areas, particularly within the state capital, to ensure the governor’s goal of achieving a Drug-Free Delta is realized.
“By collaborating with intelligence from arrested suspects and street dealers, you can trace back to suppliers and key figures in drug trafficking, which is vital for ensuring the safety of Deltans and securing the future of our youth,” he added.
Dr. Oghenesivbe lamented the rise in criminal activities, such as rape, armed robbery, kidnapping, ritual killings, and traffic accidents, attributing these issues primarily to the consumption of illegal drugs. He urged the NDLEA to take significant measures to combat this trend.
In alignment with the Peace and Security objectives of Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, Dr. Oghenesivbe noted that the state government has provided over 40 operational vehicles to various security agencies, including the NDLEA.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to offering counseling and rehabilitation support for drug victims through the establishment of rehabilitation centers in Kwale and Agbor, ensuring that individuals struggling with drug abuse receive the help they need before reintegration into society.
Dr. Oghenesivbe assured CDR Hamidu of ongoing collaboration with the NDLEA, particularly with the upcoming second phase of the Drug-Free Delta Sensitization Campaign, and mentioned that the government is considering relocating the NDLEA’s office from Ogwashi-Uku to Asaba for improved operational efficiency.
In his remarks, CDR. Hamidu emphasized that his visit aimed to strengthen the existing partnership between the NDLEA and the state government.
He outlined his vision for the agency, which includes shifting the narrative surrounding drug abuse and trafficking in Delta State through three strategies: arrests and prosecution, public awareness, and harm reduction via rehabilitation programs.
Hamidu requested support and logistical assistance from the state government to help him achieve these objectives. Accompanying him on the visit were the Deputy State Commander, CDR. Victor Isibor, and other NDLEA officials.
