NAS leads fight against drug abuse and school dropouts in Bayelsa

From Amgbare Prince, Yenagoa

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, Oxbow Marino Deck, has raised serious concerns about the growing scourge of illicit drug abuse in Bayelsa State, warning that it is driving a surge in school dropouts and youth-related crimes.

NAS raised the alarm during a two-hour live radio programme, “National Drug Awareness and Back-to-School Project,” broadcast on Radio Bayelsa Glory FM 97.1, aimed at curbing the crisis and encouraging students to return to school.

A coalition of civil society organizations, including the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Do Foundation, and the National Association of Women Against Gender-Based Violence, supported NAS’s stance, highlighting a troubling increase in juvenile delinquency and petty crimes across the state.

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The programme featured a distinguished panel, including Dr. Dise Ogbise Harry, a legal practitioner and Do Foundation founder; Comrade David West, Bayelsa CLO Chairman; and Mr. Femi Folaranmi, The Sun Newspapers’ State Correspondent.

The Steerer of Oxbow Marino Deck, Chief Douglas Sampson Etulankimor, explained that the initiative goes beyond distributing school materials. “Our goal is to counsel and redirect our youths from destructive paths, securing their future.”

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The panelists identified key factors fueling drug abuse, including inadequate parenting, lack of quality education, peer pressure, and societal influences.

Dr. Harry underscored the legal consequences, warning that a single drug possession charge Can lead to criminal record that can shatter their academic dreams and future employability.

Echoing his concern, Mr. Folaranmi urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to intensify efforts and work with legislators to enact tougher laws.

Comrade West highlighted deeper societal issues, such as poverty, unemployment, and the absence of recreational facilities, as root causes.

He advocated for rehabilitation over punishment for drug users, stating, “We must treat users as victims needing help, not just criminals. Parents and communities are our first defense.”

The programme’s open phone lines, which saw an outpouring of concern from parents and residents, reflecting widespread anxiety about the drug crisis.

Panelists called for stronger parent-child communication, partnerships between schools and local security, and greater support for community-driven initiatives like NAS’s campaign.

The broadcast concluded with a resounding call for collective action, emphasizing that protecting Bayelsa’s youth from drug abuse is vital for their academic success and future opportunities.