HURIWA calls for immediate suspension of Senator Ashiru for drug allegations

● Commends Senator Kawu’s stance on politicians and drug abuse

[Press Release] The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to immediately suspend Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru (Kwara South) from legislative duties, following serious allegations leveled against him by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The NDLEA accused the senator of involvement in illicit drug activities linked to his residence.

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HURIWA also urged the Senate’s Public Petitions Committee to launch an investigation into the senator to determine his level of involvement in the drug activities allegedly associated with his home.

During a press briefing held at its Abuja headquarters on Monday, the NDLEA disclosed that Senator Ashiru’s recent attacks on the agency were driven by personal motives rather than any legitimate concern for public welfare.

The agency revealed that illicit drugs were discovered at the senator’s residence in GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State, leading to the arrest of two of his aides during a raid in February 2024. Additionally, in a separate operation in Offa, one of Ashiru’s close associates was also arrested in possession of drugs, intensifying suspicions of the senator’s involvement in criminal drug activities.

In a statement to the press, HURIWA condemned the senator’s alleged complicity in drug-related offences and called on President Bola Tinubu to establish a high-level inter-agency investigative panel. According to HURIWA, this panel should include representatives from the NDLEA, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Department of State Services (DSS). The proposed panel would be tasked with gathering concrete evidence against politicians suspected of involvement in drug trafficking or those encouraging youth participation in substance abuse.

HURIWA emphasized that the NDLEA’s allegations suggest a significant breach of public trust by an elected official. “Senator Ashiru’s accusations against the NDLEA, where he labelled the agency as corrupt, now appear to be a smokescreen for his alleged involvement in the illicit drug trade. It is unacceptable for a public office holder to be implicated in such activities. The Senate must act swiftly by suspending him and ensuring that the appropriate authorities conduct a full investigation,” the statement read.

The group also commended Senator Sumaila Kawu (NNPP, Kano South) for his boldness in addressing the issue of drug abuse within Nigeria’s political class. During a recent Senate debate on the proposed establishment of the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, Senator Kawu openly criticized politicians, particularly lawmakers, for promoting drug use among youths for political gain. He stated that some politicians not only procure drugs for youths but also store them in their homes and offices for use during election periods.

HURIWA applauded Senator Kawu’s forthrightness, stating that his revelations underscore the urgent need for reforms within Nigeria’s political system to eliminate the influence of drug abuse in politics. The group also supported Senator Kawu’s call for mandatory drug testing of politicians before assuming office as part of broader measures to combat the growing issue of drug abuse and its exploitation by public officials.

“We commend Senator Kawu for his courage in speaking out against his colleagues who are allegedly complicit in drug-related activities. His blunt honesty is a wake-up call for Nigeria’s political system to address the dangerous link between drug abuse and politics. This issue goes beyond drug trafficking—it threatens the integrity of our public institutions, which must be safeguarded at all costs,” the statement continued.

HURIWA further expressed concern over Senator Kawu’s claim that many political leaders shield drug dealers and store illicit drugs in their homes. The group called for an immediate investigation into these allegations to hold those responsible accountable and to prevent further harm to Nigeria’s democracy. “We cannot allow our political system to be tainted by a few individuals prioritizing personal gain over national welfare. This is why we are advocating for an inter-agency investigative panel to thoroughly probe drug-related activities among politicians and ensure justice is served.”

HURIWA also urged President Bola Tinubu to treat Senator Kawu’s warnings with the seriousness they deserve and to prioritize drug abuse prevention as a critical national security issue.

The association suggested that the President collaborate with the National Assembly to strengthen the NDLEA and other law enforcement agencies, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary resources and support to fulfill their mandates effectively.

In conclusion, HURIWA stressed the importance of accountability in governance, asserting that any lawmaker found guilty of drug-related offenses should not only be removed from office but also face prosecution.

“There should be no sacred cows in the fight against drug abuse in Nigeria. If any politician is involved in drug trafficking or encouraging youth to engage in drug abuse, they must face the full consequences of their actions.
We will continue to monitor this case closely and keep the Nigerian public informed of any developments,” the group stated.

“The call for Senator Ashiru’s suspension and the establishment of a thorough investigation reflects growing concerns about the influence of drug abuse in Nigerian politics and the urgent need for reform to tackle this crisis. HURIWA remains committed to promoting transparency, justice, and accountability within Nigeria’s political system, and we will continue to advocate for a safer, more just society for all,” the statement concluded.

Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator,
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)
October 21, 2024