Members of the Kogi State House of Assembly expressed deep concern over the increasing illicit use of hard drugs among youths in the state.
During a motion of urgent public importance presented on the floor of the assembly on Friday, Bin Tijani, the representative for Lokoja I State Constituency, advocated for the establishment of a rehabilitation center to support victims of drug abuse, rape, and other mental health challenges.
He highlighted that this troubling trend has resulted in the deaths of many young people in Kogi State.
Tijani lamented the growing prevalence of drug abuse and other social issues in Lokoja and surrounding areas, noting that incidents of rape and gender-based violence have also emerged, causing significant trauma for the victims.
He emphasized the lack of a dedicated rehabilitation facility in Kogi State, which has forced many victims to seek help from untrained caregivers.
He pointed out that a non-governmental organization, MOHAB, is currently overwhelmed by the demand for support from these victims, adding that attempts to engage the state government to provide assistance have not been successful.
“It is imperative for the state government to establish a rehabilitation centre in Kogi State in view of the increasing cases of abuse and the resultant mental injuries or traumas.
When the rehabilitation centre is established, it shall provide physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative treatments for physical or mental anguish,” Tijani stated.
He further emphasized that, in addition to treating addictions, the center would support the enforcement of relevant laws concerning gender-based violence and child rights, while also contributing to a reduction in crime within the state.
Deputy Speaker Comfort Egwaba, who presided over the session, affirmed the motion’s timeliness and instructed the Clerk to communicate the House’s resolution to the state government.
