NDDC warns students: Avoid drugs and cultism or risk jail and ruined future

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has warned students to stay away from drug abuse and cultism, saying the practices destroy lives and can lead to jail terms of up to 10 years.

The Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, gave the warning during a sensitisation programme held at Community Secondary School, Oruma, in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. He said the campaign is aimed at reducing the growing cases of drug use and cult activities among young people in the Niger Delta.

He explained that drug abuse and cultism ruin dreams, endanger lives, and offer no positive future. He also urged students to resist peer pressure and focus on their education, adding that the commission remains committed to building a drug-free and cult-free region.

Dr. Ogbuku was represented at the event by the NDDC Director of Alternative Dispute Resolution, Dr. Goddy Ogedegbe.

Speaking at the programme, the Assistant State Commander of the NDLEA in Bayelsa State, Mr. Godwin Erepa, said cult members often use drugs to carry out violence and influence others negatively. He warned that drug abuse affects everyone and that cultism is illegal and destructive.

Also speaking, Inspector Iroro Ohwoharhoho of the Nigerian Police Force in Bayelsa State said cultism is a criminal offence that can attract up to 10 years in prison. He added that people convicted of cult-related offences may have their future opportunities affected by a permanent criminal record.

The Principal of Community Secondary School, Oruma, Mr. Sunny-Obi Julius, thanked the NDDC for the programme. He advised students to avoid cultism and drug abuse, saying there is no future in such behaviours.

By Aligwe Stella

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