Illicit Drug Security Threat to Ghana’s Future Leaders
The Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Peace Council, Dr. Mark Boadu, has raised a major alarm. He stated that illicit drugs and alcohol abuse among the youth no longer represents only a health crisis. Instead, it constitutes an urgent illicit drug security threat to the country. He, therefore, called on all relevant stakeholders to immediately join forces. They must address the escalating issue before it moves completely beyond control. Dr. Boadu made this crucial call during the recent International Peace Day celebration in Koforidua. The Eastern Regional capital hosted the event last Thursday.
The celebration used a powerful theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World: Addressing Youth Substance Abuse as a Pathway to Violence Prevention.” Furthermore, the event drew a host of dignitaries. They included the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, and the Regional Coordinating Director, Yaw Adu Asamoah. Additionally, the Regional Education Director, Dr. Ivy Asantewaa Owusu, attended. Traditional leaders also showed their support. Notably, the Paramount Chief of the New Juaben Traditional Area, Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III, attended. The Nkosouhene of Kwahu Nkwatia, Nana Owiredu Wadie, who is also the Eastern Regional Peace Council Ambassador, was present. Other attendees included MDCEs, heads of departments, and various community and student groups.
Dr. Boadu forcefully argued his case. The nation’s potential youth are being lured into illicit drugs and alcohol. If left unchecked, this trend will certainly lead to violence in society. He explained the profound danger: substance abuse significantly impairs the judgment of users. As a result, they often behave aggressively. This aggression directly leads to physical violence and conflicts. Moreover, Dr. Boadu detailed the financial consequences. Substance abuse creates a massive financial burden. Ultimately, this burden drives the youth to resort to theft, robbery, and other serious crimes. They commit these crimes just to fund their addictions.
Substance abuse also fractures the social fabric of communities. It breeds distrust, fear, and insecurity. Furthermore, it destroys the individual’s capacity for learning and productivity. Worst of all, it encourages the formation of gun and violence groups. Consequently, Dr. Boadu stressed that Ghanaians must “act now.” They must shield the youth from this dangerous menace. The Regional Peace Council Chairman then appealed to parents, families, and educational institutions. He called upon traditional and religious leaders to act in concert to fight the menace. Clearly, the illicit drug security threat requires a unified national response.
Eastern Regional Minister Ms. Awatey supported this urgent call. She pointed to conflicts across the world, displacing millions and creating harrowing stories. She stressed that such undesirable circumstances demand prompt action. Ms. Awatey stated, “This year’s celebration is a reminder for us to come together to promote peace.” She stressed that peace forms the very foundation upon which every society thrives. “The abuse of drugs and harmful substances among our young people does not only destroy their potential but also fuels crime, violence and insecurity in our communities,” she charged. Ms. Awatey called on stakeholders to rise to the occasion. They must speak out against violence, hate speech, discrimination, inequalities, and substance abuse. She charged, “Peace is not just a vision; it is a call to action.”
Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III, who chaired the event, offered parental advice. He strongly advised parents and guardians to keep an eagle eye on their children and wards. Peers are likely to influence them during their formative years. The Paramount Chief stated, “As stakeholders, it is imperative to demand that we identify the specific threats to our collective peace and confront them with courage and seriousness.” Finally, Nana Owiredu Wadie I urged the youth to choose life over drug addiction. He reminded them that they constitute Ghana’s future leaders and protectors of peace.
Source: Haruna Yussif Wunpini/Graphiconline
