A Bill for an Act to stablish National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, to coordinate and promote drug awareness, prevent substance abuse and facilitate the rehabilitation of drug users passed second reading in the Senate on Tuesday.
By Haruna Salami
A Bill for an Act to stablish National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, to coordinate and promote drug awareness, prevent substance abuse and facilitate the rehabilitation of drug users passed second reading in the Senate on Tuesday.
Although the bill, which was sponsored by Senator Rufa’i, Sani Hanga (Kano Central), received stiff opposition from members who were against creating another agency, the majority said it should go for public hearing where the views of all stakeholders will be sought.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North), speaking against the bill said it is the duty of NDLEA not only to arrest people who go against it, but also create awareness, among others. Let us have a look at the laws that established the agency and find out if there should be amendments.
“We have spent a lot of money on overhead. I am against establishment of not another agency that will compete with the NDLEA”, he said.
Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) said the bill carries the good, the bad, the ugly, etc, adding that “if we are going to have 10 agencies that will deal with drugs, so be it. This Bill shouldn’t die.
Sen Ademu Aliero, lending his support to the bill with said “in the country; violent crimes today is related to the abuse if drug; it is the weapon the bandits use. Let the Bill go for public hearing, and agencies, including NDLEA be invited. Let it go for a second reading.
Sen Peter Nwebonyi also supporting the bill said “we should make drug trafficking and abuse capital offence, as it is done in America, among others.
Oyelola Ashiru, Deputy Senate Leader said drug issue is so serious and about 70% of our youths are into it, adding that the “NDLEA is compromised”.
Senator Tahir Monguno, Chief Whip (Borno North) said drug abuse has eaten into the fabrics of the society. Due to its danger, ICPC, among others were created and all to no avail. So let the bill be.
Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) said “we have narcotic crises all over. Let the Bill pass for second reading for proper scrutiny.
Sen Suleiman Kawu, (Kano South), in his contribution said “every religion condemns drug use, but no senator can deny not supporting abuse in his constituency. “Before taking any appointment, election, you must be tested for drug. I can take you to political leaders who are in support of drug abuse in Nigeria”.
Senator Adebule Idiat Oluranti, (Lagos West), while supporting the bill said the essential part of it is to provide rehabilitation for victims of drug abuse, which neither NLEA nor any other agency is currently doing.
Sen Eze Ken Emeka, (Ebony Central) said drug abusers are everywhere and they can’t help themselves. NDLEA should be left with arrest, prosecution among others, but this one should be for rehabilitation.
Sen Diket Plang, (Plateau Central) said the bill will help the NDLEA.
Senator Gbenga Daniels, (Ogun East) said drug abuse is an international issue. He supported Senator Oshiomhole on the need is to support NDLEA and not create another agency.
Senator Saliu Mustapha, (Kwara Central) was of the view that awareness on the danger of drug abuse should be created, adding that drug abuse has extended to the primary school. “Let us look at the awareness creation in the bill”, he said.
Senator Joel-Onwakpo Thamos (Delta South) while speaking against the bill said “if passed, it will not serve it’s purposes”.
