Drug Abuse: Gov Sani-Bello Closes Drug Shops
Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani-Bello has ordered immediate closure of drug shops found engaging in sales of hard drugs and the prosecution of promoters of such pharmacy.
He gave the directive when he played host to members of Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers led by Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar in his office at the Government House in Minna, the state capital.
The Governor who expressed concern over the effect on socio-cultural fabric of the state said the administration would deploy new strategy to address the menace.
He stressed that the fight against drug abuse will require the support of all stakeholders and relevant bodies to work on blocking all supply channels.
“We will consolidate more on addressing security challenges in the state. We will give drug abuse priority because we noticed that most of the criminal activities are carried out under the influence of drugs.
“Having identified hard drugs as a major factor of criminal activities, we have to come up with strategy of blocking all supply channels and also follow up to ensure that black marketing does not flourish as a result of this.”
The governor then assured the royal fathers that his administration will continue to work with traditional institution in the state, just as he commended the traditional rulers for the support they have given to his administration within the past four years.
“Your counsel, prayers and intervention has contributed strongly to whatever success story we have to tell. You have displayed extreme patriotism by using your respective positions to ensure harmony, togetherness and most importantly , you have played a big role in bringing the people together to achieve our common goal as people of Niger State.
According to the Governor, “we will continue to uphold the prestige and integrity of our traditional rulers. We cannot afford to relegate our royal father’s position in the society because that will affect us in every aspect.”
Earlier, Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers and Etsu Nupe, Alh. Yahaya Abubakar who spoke on behalf of the traditional rulers in the state assured the Governor of their support throughout his tenure and promised to continue to work for the peaceful coexistence of the people of the state.
The Estu Nupe expressed joy over his victory at the gubernatorial polls and prayed for a successful tenure in office, as well as for peace , growth and development of the state and the country.
Jibrin Baba Ndace
Chief Press Secretary
19 March 2019
