The Assembly Member for the Sumbrungu Azorebisi Electoral Area, Elias Ayinbila Apasiya, has raised alarm over the growing rate of drug abuse among young people in the Upper East Region, describing the trend as a serious threat to the future of the country.
Mr. Apasiya expressed concern that many young people who should be in school are instead engaging in substance abuse, particularly the use of tramadol, “red,” marijuana, and other hard drugs. He said the situation has worsened in recent times and requires urgent attention from all stakeholders.
Speaking to a journalist from Bolga FM, Mr. Apasiya noted that drug abuse is taking a heavy toll on the lives of the youth. “We have a lot of young people engaged in drug abuse and drug peddling, and this is having a very serious impact on their lives,” he said. “The youth are the future of this country, and if at such an early age they are involved in illicit drugs, then the future of this nation is at stake.”
He further revealed that children as young as eight or nine years are reportedly abusing substances such as cocaine, marijuana, tramadol, and ‘red,’ warning that the situation, if left unchecked, could lead the country toward “doom.”
Mr. Apasiya appealed directly to the youth to shun drug abuse and focus on self-development through education, skills training, and productive economic activities. “Let us come together, think about ourselves, build ourselves, and develop our lives. That is how we will eventually develop this country. That is far better than turning to drugs,” he said.
He also urged parents to be more vigilant, noting that lack of parental care can sometimes contribute to children engaging in drug abuse and other negative behaviors. According to him, strong family support systems are critical in guiding young people away from destructive habits.
The Assembly Member called on the government to intensify interventions by creating jobs and expanding access to technical and vocational training opportunities to reduce youth vulnerability to drugs. He encouraged young people to explore innovative approaches to self-employment, save their earnings, and reinvest in sustainable ventures.
Mr. Apasiya further appealed to law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders, and religious bodies to collaborate in addressing the drug menace. He stressed that combating drug abuse is a shared responsibility and urged all sectors of society to act with urgency.
“The youth are the pillar of this country. We love them, we need them, and we want them to succeed. Let us all take responsibility for what is happening in our communities and work together to protect our future,” he said.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Sumbrungu
