Crime Won’t Stop Until We Crush Drug Cartels In Abia — Gov. Otti

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called on the National Assembly to enact tougher legislation against drug offenders and syndicates, stressing that the fight against crime must begin with dismantling the drug supply chain.

Speaking while receiving the new Abia State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Joseph Owoputi, on a familiarisation visit, Governor Otti lamented the leniency in existing drug laws which prioritize rehabilitation over deterrence.

“Unfortunately, the law is a bit lenient on the use of drugs. That’s not enough punishment,” Otti said. “We need to lobby to get a stronger law passed. If you’re not dealing with the source, you are wasting time.”

He noted that over 90 percent of crimes in society are traceable to drug abuse, which he said is especially destructive among the youth population. According to him, many young people, particularly those of school age, are being ruined by drugs and prevented from attaining their full potential.

The governor stated that cracking down on drug cartels and distributors is the most effective way to reduce crime and protect future generations.