The Oyo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to tackle drug abuse and its associated security challenges across communities in the state.
The State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Ibadan, saying the partnership was strengthened during a one-day drug abuse sensitisation programme organised by the NDLEA for Amotekun operatives.
“The collaboration aims to focus on drug abuse prevention, identification of substance-related risks, healthy coping strategies, responsible conduct and community-based approaches to promoting drug-free communities,” Oyelade said.
The Amotekun Commandant, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.), represented by the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs Adigun Yetunde, stressed the importance of continuous training and capacity building for personnel, particularly on issues affecting community safety.
“A better understanding of substance abuse will enable officers to recognise emerging risks, respond appropriately and contribute more effectively to drug abuse prevention efforts within their areas of operation,” he said.
Olayanju urged the operatives to apply the knowledge gained through responsible observation, information gathering and collaboration with relevant agencies, noting that a professional and community-oriented approach would strengthen public confidence.
Also speaking, the NDLEA Staff Officer, Drug Integrity Test, Oyo State Command, O. A. Achichi, said tackling drug abuse required the collective efforts of security agencies, families, schools, community leaders and other stakeholders.
Achichi urged Amotekun personnel to maintain professionalism when handling suspected drug-related cases, stressing that suspicion should not be treated as proof.
He advised officers to observe, verify and properly document relevant information before referring cases requiring specialised drug law enforcement attention to the NDLEA or other competent agencies.
During the technical session, the NDLEA Staff Officer, Prevention and Sensitisation, Peter Akinbode, said drug abuse could negatively affect individuals, families, youths and community security.
He identified peer influence, curiosity, stress, trauma, unemployment and social pressure as some of the factors that could encourage substance use.