The Bayelsa State Drug Abuse, Addiction, Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee (BADAPARC), took it’s campaign to Ekeki motor park and Opolo market in Yenagoa to educate drivers, passengers, businessmen and market women on the dangers of drug abuse and substance addiction.
The team comprised Pharm (Dr) Charles Ronari Owaba, Head of BADAPARC’s Media and Publicity, Pharm (Dr) Timipre Okeroghene, Pharm. Timinipre Isarah and Pharm Izu Suoyo, all being members of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Bayelsa State, together with officers from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Zone 13, including Mrs. Ikwo Uno, a Deputy Commander and Dr. Kingsley Peterside, Deputy Commander. Other NDLEA staff that participated were Mr Isa Samaila, Mr David Babatunde and Mr Yakubu Ibrahim.
At Ekeki motor park, the team was received by Mr Longlife Paul Robinson, Chairman of the Park Management Committee, who supported the exercise and endorsed the initiative, describing it as a positive move by Senator Douye Diri’s prosperity administration.
Pharm (Dr) Charles stated that, Governor, Senator Douye Diri is determined to tackle drug abuse in the State, and the Committee’s awareness campaign is a key step towards achieving this goal.
Speaking further, he cautioned that, drivers who use and controll drugs like Tramadol and other habit-forming ones put themselves and their passengers at risk of road traffic accidents and endanger their lives.
Dr Peterside warned that, some substances can alter drivers’ moods and perceptions, causing them to take unnecessary risks on the road including reckless overtaking.
He encouraged the drivers and others around the park to prioritise their health and safety by avoiding drug abuse.
Pharm. (Dr) Timipre advised everyone at the park to be cautious, by taking only medications recommended by healthcare professionals and to resist the temptation of substance and drug abuse.
In an interactive session, the team fielded questions from traders, drivers and passengers, providing clarity on key issues.
The delegation then moved to Opolo market where they were welcomed by a member of the market’s Taskforce identified as Mr Ebuka, who facilitated their movement and ensured access to strategic locations for the sensitisation.
At Oplo market, Pharm. Isarah urged the traders to shun drug abuse and keep a close eye on their family members, especially young people, to prevent substance use driven by peer pressure.
Pharm. Izu then warned that, the indiscriminate use of controlled and illicit drugs can lead to severe consequences, including a reduced lifespan, causing pain for family members.
