Lawmakers express concern about youth drug abuse in Kogi.

Members of the Kogi State House of Assembly have expressed concern over the increasing use of hard drugs among youths in the state.

The issue was raised through a motion of urgent public importance brought by the representative of Lokoja I, Bin Ebaiya Shehu Tijani, who called for the establishment of a rehabilitation center to address the needs of individuals affected by drug abuse, rape, and other mental challenges.

The lawmaker pointed out that the rampant abuse of drugs has resulted in the untimely deaths of many young people in the state.

The prevalence of drug abuse and other social ills in Lokoja and other areas of Kogi State was highlighted during the proceedings.

The lawmaker noted that in addition to drug abuse, cases of rape and gender-based violence were alarmingly common, causing significant trauma to the victims.

He emphasized the lack of a rehabilitation center in Kogi State to assist these victims, leading many to seek assistance from unqualified individuals.

The establishment of a rehabilitation center was deemed necessary by the lawmaker to provide essential services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative treatments for individuals experiencing physical or mental distress.

Additionally, the center would address addiction issues and provide support for relevant laws pertaining to gender-based violence and child rights, ultimately contributing to a reduction in crime rates in Kogi State.

The Deputy Speaker, Mrs. Comfort Ojoma Nwochiola Egwaba, echoed the importance of the motion and directed the clerk to communicate the resolution of the House to the state government.