Drug abuse damages brain, leads to death —Medical practitioner, NDLEA say

Following the high level of drug abuse recorded in the country, a medical practitioner, Dr Joe Okegbe, and Abubakar Mohammed of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have advised Nigerians, especially youths, to desist from abusing drugs, noting that the side effects could be disastrous.

The duo gave the charge at a Public Seminar on Illicit Drugs and Health organised by the Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) during its conference held in Calabar.

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Dr Joe Okegbe, a former Chief Medical Director,  Federal Neuro-Psychiatrist Hospital, Calabar, said recent statistics have shown that over 60 per cent of youths are involved in drug abuse despite efforts to discourage them from taking hard drugs, including secondary school and university students.

He listed factors that influence youths to drug abuse to include alcoholic family members, anti-social behavior, sexual, physical or mental abuse, academic achievement, early start, rebellion, pressure group, poverty, stress among others.

Highlighting the dangers of drug abuse, Dr Okpegbe said it could lead to serious brain damage, and eventual death.

President of Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) Worldwide, Mr Lewis Aitufe, said the people need to be aware of consequences and the legal effect of illicit drug abuse.

He urged NDLEA to extend their action towards containing drug abuse to pharmacies who administer drugs or sell drugs to individuals without requesting for doctor’s prescription.

Abubakar Mohammed, the Principal Staff Officer, Operation, Investigation and Intelligence, Cross Rivers Command of the NDLEA, said  that illicit drugs is not good for anybody, adding “ if you are taking it, you are to stop it. If you are thinking of going into it, don’t even try it.

“But if you are now an addict, there is hope for you. Seek help, even in our office.”