BREAKING: Osun NDLEA Commander outlines drug control plans, denies corruption allegation

The Osun State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Adetula O. Lawal, has described drug abuse as a growing concern in the state.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>

Commander Lawal also called for collaborative efforts to combat the problem.

He made this call during an interview with journalists in Osogbo on Friday.

Addressing the rising drug abuse among youth, the Osun NDLEA boss revealed that there are ongoing efforts by the agency to tackle the issue.

“The drug menace among our youth is a serious issue, and we are working tirelessly to address it through multiple strategies,” he said.

When asked about allegations of NDLEA staff collecting bribes from the public, the Commander dismissed them as baseless.

He firmly stated, “These claims lack evidence and do not reflect the values of this agency. We have a zero-tolerance policy on corruption.”

He explained that the NDLEA has a dedicated monitoring team responsible for ensuring integrity within the organization.

“We issue regular circulars reminding staff of the consequences of engaging in corrupt practices,” he added.

Highlighting the agency’s dual approach to combating drug abuse, Lawal spoke on demand and supply reduction strategies.

“On one hand, we focus on reducing the supply of illicit drugs through enforcement. On the other, we work on demand reduction by creating awareness and sensitizing the public,” he explained.

“A key element of the NDLEA’s awareness campaign is the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, launched by the agency’s Chairman. It is a vital program educating the public on the dangers of drug abuse.”

The Commander also commended the Osun State Government for establishing I-WADA, a state-level extension of the national initiative.

“This localized program strengthens our fight against drug abuse by involving communities directly,” he noted.

Lawal stressed the importance of collaboration with the mass media in spreading awareness.

“The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and supporting our sensitization efforts,” he said.

The NDLEA, according to Lawal, remains committed to tackling drug abuse through education, enforcement, and partnerships.

“Our goal is a drug-free society, and we will keep working with all stakeholders to achieve it,” he affirmed.

He called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to join in the fight against drug abuse.

“We cannot do this alone. Everyone must play their part in guiding our youth away from drugs,” he urged.

Lawal also praised the Osun State Government’s support for the NDLEA’s initiatives.

“The government’s backing has been instrumental in our fight against drug abuse, and we appreciate their commitment. With continued collaboration between the agency, the state government, and the media, I am confident we can curb the drug menace in our society,” he stated.