The immediate past Special Adviser to Gov. Hope Uzodinma on Narcotics and Illicit Drugs Monitoring, Chief Ezechukwu Obonna, has advised Imo youths to avoid drug abuse while celebrating this year’s Valentine’s Day.
Obonna gave the advice during an interactive session with newsmen in Owerri on Wednesday.
He described the Valentine’s Day celebration as an opportunity to spread love, compassion and generosity, while abstaining from acts capable of altering the mind and causing unintended harm.
He further advised those who indulge in illicit drugs and other harmful substances to desist forthwith in the spirit of the celebration.
According to him, substances, such as marijuana, cocaine and methamphetamine, are capable of causing destruction to the consumers.
Obonna also encouraged those who have nothing to do with illicit drugs to remain steadfast in their chosen path and avoid the temptation of experimenting with them.
He lauded Uzodimma for his continued commitment to enforcing the law on drug-related offences and advised the youths to shun illicit drugs.
He warned that those found guilty of abuse would be made to face the full weight of the law.
“Today is an opportunity to remind ourselves of the importance of responsible behaviour and I implore Imo people to avoid the temptation of illicit drugs.
“When I served as the governor’s aide, we were able to implement stringent measures to combat the spread of illicit drugs across the state through effective collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
“Let’s make today and everyday not only about celebrating love but also spreading positivity and supporting those in need,“ Obonna said.
He urged Imo residents and Nigerians to take out time to celebrate the day, the current economic challenges, notwthatanding.
He expressed the confidence that President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies would soon begin to yield the desired results.
