By Joy Omagha Idam, Abuja
The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA) has rejected calls by civil rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, for the legalisation of cannabis in Nigeria, describing drug abuse as a serious threat to public health, families and national development.
The Founder and National Coordinator of AKH-TRACADA, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, made the organisation’s position known in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday.
Ezeanyaeche also condemned what he described as insulting and disparaging remarks directed at officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) who are enforcing Nigeria’s drug laws.
According to him, while democratic societies must allow room for debate on drug policy, such discussions should be driven by evidence, public safety, responsible legislation and the protection of vulnerable members of society.
“Drug abuse remains a serious public health and social concern, with consequences for individuals, families, communities and national development,” he said.
He cautioned that calls for policy changes should not be used as a platform to ridicule or undermine law enforcement officers carrying out their statutory responsibilities.
AKH-TRACADA urged public officials, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to engage in responsible and respectful dialogue on drug policy, stressing that disagreements should be expressed through lawful and constructive channels.
AKH-TRACADA Backs NDLEA Anti-Drug Campaign
The organisation commended the officers and men of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for intensifying the fight against illicit drugs and cannabis cultivation.
It said the agency’s efforts in drug enforcement, public education, treatment, rehabilitation and other evidence-based interventions were contributing to the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
Ezeanyaeche said AKH-TRACADA’s opposition to cannabis legalisation was not new, noting that the organisation had publicly stated its position at a Drug Prevention, Treatment and Care Sensitisation Programme organised by the NDLEA for NGOs in the North-Central Zone in Abuja in June 2022.
He recalled that during the programme, a group had advocated the legalisation of cannabis, prompting AKH-TRACADA to object to the proposal.
“Our position is clear: drug policy must prioritise public health, public safety, the rule of law and the protection of our communities. AKH-TRACADA strongly objects to the legalisation of cannabis in any form,” he stated.
Group Condemns Attack on Drug Law Enforcement Officers
The organisation, however, acknowledged the right of individuals and groups to publicly express their views on sensitive national issues, including drug policy.
It insisted that such views should be presented civilly and without personal attacks on officers responsible for enforcing the law.
“Any attempt to denigrate or demean our hardworking personnel who sacrifice daily for this country will be unacceptable,” AKH-TRACADA said.
The organisation called on stakeholders to embrace informed dialogue, cooperation and evidence-based solutions in tackling the complex challenges associated with drug abuse.
Sowore Calls for Cannabis Legalisation
The development followed a recent post by Sowore on his Facebook page in which he called for the legalisation of cannabis in Nigeria, apparently in reaction to the destruction of cannabis farms by NDLEA personnel.
AKH-TRACADA said that while it respected Sowore’s right to express his position, it strongly disagreed with the call for legalisation and urged Nigerians to approach the debate with caution, responsibility and a focus on public health and safety.