Drug Abuse: Edo Accuses Pharmacists, Doctors of Fuelling Crisis as Stakeholders Call for Collaborative Efforts

The Edo State government has accused certain pharmacists, doctors, and healthcare workers of contributing to the drug abuse crisis in the region. At a stakeholders workshop hosted by the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Festus Ebea, stated that many health workers have been involved in facilitating drug and substance abuse.

The workshop aimed to discuss the need for alcohol and substance abuse screening to enhance safety in the workplace and society. Attendees included Benin City Police Zone 5 AIG Monday Agbonika, NDLEA Commandant, and others.

UBTH inaugurated a drug testing centre built by the institution, marking the first of its kind in South-south Nigeria. The workshop covered various screening methods, including pre-employment, random, and reasonable suspicion testing, each serving a specific purpose in maintaining a drug-free environment. Discussions also addressed the societal consequences of substance abuse, ranging from public health burdens to increased risks of accidents and criminal activity.

Governor Monday Okpeholo blamed political elites for the rise in drug abuse, claiming politicians pressure the Ministry to release offenders. He emphasized that drug abuse leads to various societal ills, including criminal activities and domestic violence. The Assistant AIG Monday Agbonika called for greater collaboration among stakeholders to effectively curb drug abuse.

Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, Edo State Commander of NDLEA, stressed the importance of such measures in enhancing public safety and noted that screening is a preventive and protective action.