By Paul Nnachi
Lagos, the vibrant economic hub of Nigeria and described as the cultural, financial, and entertainment capital of Africa, is grappling with a surge in drug abuse. Startlingly, Lagos State now holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest cases of drug abuse in Nigeria, with a prevalence of 33%, as revealed by the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa.
The global drug abuse prevalence is 5.5%, making Nigeria’s rate triple the international figure. SpringNews investigations indicate that illicit drugs are not only sold but openly consumed in various neighborhoods, raising concerns among residents.
Noteworthy Efforts by NDLEA:
Commendably, the NDLEA has undertaken operations against illicit drug syndicates in Lagos, leading to significant seizures. On November 5, 2023, the NDLEA seized 14.4 million pills of hard drugs valued at N13 billion in Amuwo Odofin and Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja. The agency’s relentless pursuit of drug cartels has also resulted in arrests, including three blind men and a businessman.
Challenges in Tackling Open Drug Abuse:
Despite these efforts, the NDLEA, along with the government, appears to grapple with the escalating issue of open drug abuse in various Lagos neighborhoods. From Mushin to Oshodi, Ijora to Agege, the public consumption of drugs continues unabated, posing a significant challenge to law enforcement and government intervention.
Spotlight on Affected Areas:
SpringNews sheds light on several areas across Lagos where drug abuse is rampant:
MushinAkala, Umoru, Amodu, Ojo, Elegba, Adedoja, and Alhaji Lasisi streets are identified as hotspots for open drug abuse.
Lagos Island:Alapatira, Isale Eko, Patey, and Idumota are mentioned as places where illicit drugs are publicly abused.
Ojo: Alaba Rago emerges as a notorious area for drug abuse, particularly in the Kango section of the market.
Oshodi/Isolo:The train track under the Oshodi Bridge and spots around Mafoluku witness the scandalous consumption of illicit drugs.
Ifelodun Ajeromi: Ajegunle stands out as a hotspot for drug abuse, with JMJ quarters along Tolu Road and Maracana Stadium being notorious locations.
Agege:Abattoir in Oko-Oba and Akerele Street are identified as renowned areas for the consumption and sale of illicit drugs.
Alimosho:Spots within Igando, Ikotun, Egbeda, and Abesan witness open drug abuse, with Greenland field area being a popular location.
Ikeja: Areas around Afrika Shrine are highlighted for prevalent drug abuse, especially at night.
Eti-Osa: From Oniru Beach to unmanned waterfront corridors, Eti-Osa witnesses widespread public abuse of drugs, particularly at night.
Mainland: Oyingbo to Otto and Otumara Village are mentioned as scandalous places within Mainland Local Council where drugs are openly offered for sale and consumed.
Laws and Enforcement
Despite having laws in place to regulate smoking in public places, enforcement appears lax. The Lagos State government is building a 1,500-bed Psychiatric Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre at Majidun in Ketu Ejinrin to address drug addiction.
Stakeholders’ Concerns
Stakeholders express concern about the implications of open drug abuse, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. Efforts should include education in schools, churches, and mosques to raise awareness about the negative consequences of drug abuse.
Conclusion
While the NDLEA plays a crucial role in supply reduction, a holistic approach involving communities, families, and religious organizations is deemed essential to tackle the growing challenge of open drug abuse in Lagos.