- The commissioner noted that serious medical condition is the end product of drug abuse.
- He advocated for good parenting to guide youth away from these destructive groups.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has raised an alarm over the spate of drug abuse and cultism among youths.
He said it’s time urgent measures were taken to halt the trend.
Speaking at an event organised by the police campaign against cultism and other vices (POCACOV), on Saturday in Ikeja, Fayoade said cultism and drug abuse often result to many criminal activities.
POCACOV is an initiative that is aimed at saving the youths from the claws of cultism and other vices through advocacy, awareness creation, school and community outreaches.
Fayoade said there is an urgent need to address cultism and drug abuse, adding collective efforts are crucial to eliminate these security threats.
“Today, cultism is not only in higher institution, it has taken over every fabric of the society; mechanics, barbers, drivers and others are now members of cults,” the Lagos CP said.
“Cultists don’t do anything meaningful but to disturb the peace of the community, fighting, claiming superiority and destroying lives and property.
The Lagos CP said combined efforts of tht government, security agencies and citizens are crucial to combat the menace of cultism and drug abuse.
“The law enforcement agencies, government, family, stakeholders and individuals, must join hands to tame these menaces that have eaten deep into our society,” he said.
“When you engage in cult activity and drug abuse, you will be prone to committing other crimes.
“We are losing the precious lives of our youths that would have contributed to the economy and social development of our country.
The commissioner noted that serious medical condition is the end product of drug abuse, advocating for good parenting to guide youth away from these destructive groups.
“When you are mentally derailed, you cannot do anything meaningful with your life; your family and the society will also be affected.
“Parents, pay special attention to your children, teach them to do the right thing and always advise them against peer pressure.”
Speaking further, Olabisi Okuwobi, national coordinator of POCACOV, urged students to shun social vices capable of derailing their journey in life.
“Reject cultism and drug abuse to face your education so you can become better students with a brighter future,” she said
She noted the dangers of joining a cult and urged for concerted efforts to combat vices and protect Nigerian children from destruction.