The Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) in Edo State has commemorated the International Youth Day with a focus on drug abuse, cultism and kidnapping. The gathering in Benin City, aimed at empowering the youth and addressing critical societal issues, attracted a diverse audience, including youths from various parts of the state.
Mrs Helen Ogbonika, the Chairperson of the POWA Edo State chapter, said in her welcome address that the occasion was organised to sensitise youths on living right to actualise their future ambitions. In her words, “As police officers’ wives, we have a duty of care to educate and equip youths to navigate the complexities of life. This workshop will help them to avoid making mistakes that can truncate their dreams for a better tomorrow.”
The event featured a presentation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, who addressed the topic ‘Dangers of Drug Abuse and the Power to Say No to Drug Offers’. The presentation provided participants with deep insights about the health and socio-economic consequences of drug abuse.
“Drug trafficking and abuse are closely linked to cultism, kidnapping and related crimes. The NDLEA is aware of the devastating effects; hence, we are pleased to educate youths to be properly guided to eschew any act capable of undermining their natural endowments and aspirations. It is therefore important that we take proactive measures to address these criminal acts in our society. Understand that nobody will force you to take drugs, but you must be courageous to resist drug offers by simply saying, ‘No, I don’t want to’,” Mitchell stated.
In addition, an interactive question and answer session enabled participants to engage directly with the Commander and seek clarity on pressing issues related to drug abuse.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Ogbonika, who also graced the occasion, highlighted the disturbing trends of cultism and kidnapping that affect the youth today. His remarks served as a wake-up call for attendees to recognise and combat these societal challenges by promoting safety and well-being among the younger population.
Among the dignitaries present were Chief Barr Bisi Idaomi, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, as well as POWA members from across the state. Their support and involvement underscored the state’s commitment to addressing the disturbing issues faced by youths.
The event underscored the collective responsibility of the community in safeguarding the youth and also emphasised the need for ongoing dialogue and education to combat drug-related problems and other societal threats. One major takeaway for the participants was their empowerment as advocates for positive change.
