The Senate has issued a plea to the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in response to the escalating crisis of drugs and narcotics abuse within Nigeria.

The Red Chamber has instructed its National Agency for Administration Control, Drugs, and Narcotics committee to collaborate with pertinent federal agencies in convening a National Summit addressing the issue of drugs and narcotics abuse in the nation.

These decisions were reached during the Senate’s deliberation on a motion introduced by Senator BABANGIDA UBA HUSSAINI representing Jigawa Northwest. 

Senator HUSSAINI, in his lead argument, pointed out that what was once a transit route in the 1990s has now transformed into a nation grappling with drug abuse and trafficking. 

He drew attention to the large spending on psychotropic drugs and alcoholic beverages, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

President of the Senate, GODSWILL AKPABIO expressed alarm at the extent to which some young individuals have resorted to drilling holes in soakaway pits to inhale vapours for a high. 

Deputy President of the Senate, JIBRIN BARAU highlighted that drug abuse permeates various segments of society, including celebrities and politicians.