Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called for tougher action against people who profit from drug trafficking, while urging greater support for Nigerians struggling with drug dependence.
Abbas made the call on Saturday in Kaduna at the end of a three-day sensitisation programme on drug abuse and domestic violence organised in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency.
He said those involved in the illegal drug trade should face the law, while people trapped in addiction should receive treatment and rehabilitation.
“We must punish those who profit from drugs. We must also treat those who have become trapped by them. The dealer needs the law. The dependent person needs care,” Abbas said.
The Speaker said the fight against drug abuse required the combined efforts of families, schools, communities, traditional and religious leaders and law enforcement agencies.
He also linked drug trafficking to Nigeria’s wider security challenges, particularly banditry and kidnapping in the North-West.
According to Abbas, proceeds from drug trafficking can provide criminal networks with funds for weapons, recruitment and other illegal activities.
“Drugs do not explain every crime, but they are part of Nigeria’s wider security challenge,” he said.
Abbas stressed that disrupting drug supply chains should be part of efforts to tackle violent crime, noting that stopping drug shipments could deny criminal groups money used to finance their activities.
He also urged communities to play a stronger role in preventing drug abuse, calling on parents to pay attention to changes in their children’s behaviour and schools to provide counselling and report warning signs.
The Speaker further appealed to pharmacists and medicine vendors to reject the illegal sale of controlled substances, while encouraging traditional and religious leaders to speak openly about addiction.
On domestic violence, Abbas said victims should be supported rather than blamed or stigmatised. He urged victims to seek medical attention, report abuse and preserve evidence.
He said the National Assembly would continue working to strengthen laws, improve enforcement and support treatment programmes aimed at tackling drug abuse and related violence.
Abbas also commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Police Force and other security and government agencies for their efforts in combating drug-related crimes.
He urged Nigerians to take responsibility for preventing drug abuse and helping protect vulnerable members of society.
