.jpeg "Hard drugs are peddled in an Abuja community like sachet water, according to the NDLEA and NACAT.")
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS and Trafficking in Persons (NACAT) have conducted a community outreach campaign aimed at discouraging the consumption of illicit substances in the Abattoir neighborhood located in Abuja.
The sensitization initiative followed an investigation conducted by the National Agency for the Control of Drug Abuse and Trafficking (NACAT). The investigation revealed that the Abattoir, situated near an animal market in the Karu area of Abuja, which lies on the border between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nassarwa State, serves as a significant center for the illegal trade of drugs such as Crack, Codeine, Molly, Tramadol, Refnol, Rochi, Arizona, and various types of Loud (specifically Canadian and Ghanaian loud).
During a community road-walk event, the Abuja Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) exhibited a range of banners and posters bearing the message, "Friends Don't Let Friends Do Drugs." Several slogans promoting drug prevention and awareness include "Spot the sign, break the chain," "Your Potential is Limitless Without Drugs," "Love Yourself: Break Free from Substance Abuse," and "Say no to drug trafficking," among others.
During a press briefing on sanitization efforts, Stanley Ugagbe, the Operational Manager of the National Agency for the Control of Drug Abuse (NACAT), referred to Section 11, Part II of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act. This section explicitly prohibits the importation, manufacturing, production, processing, planting, or cultivation of illicit substances such as cocaine, LSD, heroin, and other illegal drugs. Ugagbe cautioned the local residents about the dangers associated with the consumption of hard drugs.
Ugagbe asserted that based on a confidential lead, a covert investigation was undertaken, revealing the open sale of illicit narcotics in this locality during daylight hours. Consequently, as a collective dedicated to combating drug trafficking, the purpose of our presence today is to raise awareness among the populace regarding the severe consequences associated with the consumption and distribution of hard drugs.
He cautioned dealers to involve themselves in meaningful enterprises, emphasizing the abundance of genuine business opportunities available in the country for sustainable livelihoods.
The officer in charge of sensitization at the FCT Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nduka Augustine, expressed his appreciation to the Nigerian Association of Clinical and Applied Toxicology (NACAT) for their efforts in raising awareness about the hazards associated with drug use, drug trafficking, and drug peddling.