The village head of Ikot Ebido Oku in Uyo local government area of Akwa Ibom State, Eteidung Ini Bassey Ekong, expressed worry over high level abuse of illicit drugs by youths.
Ekong lamented that substance abuse was forcing youths into cultism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes which he said could discourage visitors, tourists and investors coming to the state, if not curbed.
Couple with the clusters of youths battling with drug- induced mental health challenges, the traditional ruler, called on the state government to intensify efforts in tackling the menace.
He noted that insecurity could scare investors to shun the state, thereby rendering huge cash invested in the architectural reinvention of the state wasted, while stressing the need for intense security enforcement to address the situation.
The village head stated this while inspecting a Primary Health Centre rehabilitated by the Chairman of Uyo LGA, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, at Ikot Ebido Oku,
He noted that security intervention by government will deter the youths from perpetuating acts capable of causing damage to government properties “after such illicit drugs consumption which often cause restiveness.”
Stressing the need for tight security to prevent vandalism of public assets and utilities, the monarch commended the Chairman for taking development of the health centre as important intervention to address the grassroots health challenges.
He particularly lauded the Chairman for erecting parameter fence around the premises “to secure the place against vandalism by the youths who are bent in destroying government properties for sell as scraps.”
“Let me equally thank the Council Chairman for other projects embarked upon in Uyo LGA and for his leadership prowess which has justified the confidence reposed in you by the vast majority of the Uyo people who elected you into power for a second term,” he said.
Besides, the monarch applauded the state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for approving Udo’s appointment as the state Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).
He noted that the platform has enabled him to work extra hard, and “giving him opportunity to showcase his ability to lead beyond his area Council.”
