In a proactive move to combat the rising concerns of thuggery, hooliganism, and drug abuse ahead of the impending Local Government elections in Oyo State, the Iyalode of Idere, in conjunction with the Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), organized a comprehensive Public Awareness and Enlightenment Program.
The event, held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Maternity Centre Playground in Roundabout Idere, drew significant attendance from residents and traditional rulers across major towns and communities around Idere and Igboora in Oyo State, South West Nigeria.
Prior to the commencement of the awareness program, delegations from the Iyalode Idere Foundation, Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation, and NDLEA paid homage to His Royal Majesty, Oba Kingsley Aderoju Onikola, the Onidere of Idereland.
During this homage, Oba Onikola lauded the organizers for their efforts in spearheading the sensitization and awareness campaign against thuggery, hooliganism, and drug abuse.
He pledged his support to ensure the creation of a more egalitarian society free from the scourge of drugs and social vices.
The program, led by Iyalode Yetunde Dada, founder of the Iyalode Idere Foundation, emphasized the detrimental effects of illicit drugs and social vices, particularly on the youth population.
Dada stressed the urgent need for awareness programs to educate the public about the associated dangers and underscored the pivotal role of traditional rulers in eradicating such anti-social behaviors.
Asiwaju Dapo Wahab, President of the Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation, delivered a compelling lecture highlighting the foundation’s achievements in advocating for drug demand reduction.
He urged traditional rulers, parents, and community stakeholders to intensify efforts in sensitizing the public about the adverse effects of drug abuse.
Wahab’s demonstration on the health implications of drug abuse resonated with the diverse audience, which included school children, youths, women, men, and artisans.
The distribution of educational booklets on ‘The Truth About Drugs,’ provided by Drug-Free World, Los Angeles, in collaboration with the Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation, further enriched the awareness initiative.
Participants, including traditional rulers, parents, and children, were encouraged to take a pledge on drug demand reduction.
NDLEA’s Area Deputy Commander, Abiodun Orodunsin, underscored the agency’s commitment to curbing drug trafficking and abuse.
Orodunsin emphasized the need for collective efforts in addressing the organized criminal activities associated with drug trafficking, which pose threats to national security and development.
The event featured presentations from the police, healthcare practitioners, and religious leaders, fostering interactive sessions to clarify and shed light on the theme of the awareness program.
Distinguished traditional rulers in attendance included Oba Kingsley Aderoju Onikola, Oba Rafiu Ariwoola, Oba Titiloye Oyekanmi Owolabi Sunday, Oba Fasasi Adekunle Jinadu, and Oba Jamiu Adedamola Badmus, among others.
The Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation’s entourage included notable figures such as Alhaja Chief (Mrs.) Bolanle Dapo-Wahab, Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Eweje, Mrs. Egbeyemi M.C, and Adejola Adeyemi Crown.
The comprehensive Public Awareness and Enlightenment Program served as a significant milestone in fostering collaboration among stakeholders to combat thuggery, hooliganism, and drug abuse in Oyo State. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, the initiative aimed to create a safer and drug-free environment for all residents, paving the way for a more prosperous future.
