Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
In a bold and uncompromising move to combat rising crime and drug abuse in Ohaozara Local Government Area, the Executive Chairman, Ajah Chinonso Consider, has declared a full-scale crackdown on hard drug use, trafficking, and associated criminal activities ravaging the youth and threatening community peace.
Addressing residents and stakeholders in a passionate statement, the Chairman thanked the people of Ohaozara—particularly traditional rulers, religious leaders, town unions, and civil society groups—for their continued commitment to peace and development.
However, he warned that the growing menace of drug abuse, especially the use of methamphetamine (commonly known as Mkpuru Mmiri), tramadol, rohypnol, and marijuana, is now directly linked to an alarming increase in robbery, rape, kidnapping, and domestic violence across the council area.
Mr Ajah declared that his administration would invoke every relevant law to flush out criminal elements from the area, especially in communities like Uburu, Okposi, and Ugwulangwu, which he noted have seen a spike in drug-related offenses.
“This is a final warning to drug peddlers, users, armed robbers, kidnappers, rapists, and their enablers.
“It is either you change your ways or leave Ohaozara immediately,” the Chairman said, emphasizing that peace and security must take precedence over tolerance for criminality.
In a landmark development, the Council, in collaboration with its Legislative Arm, has passed a law targeting houses and landowners who harbour criminals or allow their properties to be used for drug sales or kidnappings.
Under the new law, such buildings will be demolished and forfeited to the government, while lands used for illegal activities in forests or bushes will be seized if the owners fail to report such crimes.
The Chairman also appealed to parents and guardians to take proactive steps by warning their children and wards against indulging in drug abuse and violence.
He encouraged them to support their youths in acquiring vocational skills and seizing opportunities provided by the Council.
“We have established a vocational skills acquisition programme at the Industrial Cluster in Uburu. Our young people can learn fashion designing and other trades to build a productive and dignified future.”
Mr Ajah reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Ohaozara LGA a safe and prosperous community for all.
He urged all residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities.
With these measures in place, Ohaozara joins the growing list of local councils across Nigeria taking firm steps to address the drug crisis and its devastating impact on communities.
