The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has pledged strong support and collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its renewed drive to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking across the country.
The monarch made the commitment during a courtesy visit to the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), at the agency’s national headquarters in Abuja on Friday. He was accompanied by the Oloro of Oro, Oba Joel Olaniyan Olatoye, and the Olusin of Ijara Isin, Oba Ademola Julius Ajibola.
Commending Marwa’s leadership and record of public service, the Alaafin described him as a distinguished figure whose contributions, including the popular Keke Marwa transport initiative, continue to resonate nationwide. “Your being in this position at the moment is not by chance. It’s because of your devotion, your commitment, and your amiable character. We are proud of you,” he said.
Responding to Marwa’s call for traditional rulers to support the fight against drug abuse, the Alaafin affirmed the readiness of the traditional institution to partner with the NDLEA at the grassroots level. “We are close to the people and know what is happening in our communities. We are more than ready to work with you and to give all necessary support to ensure your success. Anytime you need us, we will always be there,” he assured.
Earlier, Marwa congratulated the Alaafin on his ascension to the throne and emphasised the critical role traditional rulers play in combating drug abuse within local communities. He highlighted the severity of the drug crisis, citing the 2018 National Drug Use Survey which estimated that nearly 15 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 consume drugs.
“We have been mandated by President Tinubu to fight the drug scourge, arrest traffickers, prosecute them, and seize their assets. To succeed, we must work with traditional institutions because Nigerians respect their traditional leaders. When they speak, it carries weight,” Marwa said.
He urged royal fathers to deepen advocacy, collaborate with religious leaders, and share intelligence on drug dealers operating within their domains. “If we are able to control drug use, criminality will also reduce, because kidnappers, insurgents, terrorists, and bandits rely on drugs to embolden themselves,” he added.
Marwa expressed gratitude for the visit and wished the Alaafin a long, peaceful, and prosperous reign over the Oyo Kingdom.
