Abia Governor Unleashes Strategy to Combat Cultism and Drug Menace in the State
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, launches a robust initiative against the surge in cultism, drug addiction, and associated crimes. Expressing concern over youth involvement, Otti emphasizes the critical link between illicit substances, cult membership, and crimes like armed robbery. With support from law enforcement, including the Inspector General of Police, the state aims to collaboratively tackle these challenges, recognizing underlying socio-economic issues highlighted by experts.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a bid to tackle the rising menace of cultism, drug addiction, and associated criminal activities, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, announced a comprehensive strategy during a one-day sensitization campaign in Umuahia.
Governor Otti expressed concern over the alarming involvement of youths in criminal activities, attributing a significant portion of the issue to the influence of illicit drugs and membership in cult groups. He highlighted the strong connection between cultism, drug addiction, and crimes such as armed robbery, kidnappings, abductions, violent crimes, and banditry.
The Abia State government's initiative garnered support from law enforcement agencies, with the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by DCP Sani Shuabi. Egbetokun assured that the Nigeria Police would collaborate closely with the state government and other security agencies to effectively combat the challenges posed by cultism and drug addiction.
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Professor Maduebibisi Iwe, Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, identified unemployment and a weak industrial base as significant challenges contributing to the prevalence of cultism and drug addiction among Nigerian youth.
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The Director General of Abia State Orientation Agency, Dike Nwankwo, highlighted the agency's role in organizing the sensitization program. The initiative aims to raise awareness and mobilize citizens against cultism, drug addiction, and other forms of criminality, promoting a safer environment for residents and visitors alike.
Abia State takes a bold step in addressing the root causes of criminality, with a multifaceted approach that involves public awareness, collaboration with law enforcement, and recognition of underlying socio-economic challenges faced by the youth.*
