Ike Uke Foundation Kicks Off Campaign Against Illicit Drugs In South East Region At Omasi, Ayamelum Council Area

Ike Uke Foundation, a non-profit making organization, has kicked off its campaign on eradication of hard drugs in South East Nigeria, beginning with Omasi community, Anyamelum Local Government Area.

The event held at the palace of the traditional ruler of Omasi, Igwe Benjamin Okeji, aimed at sensitizing the youths on the effect of hard drugs, especially methamphetamine popularly known as ‘Mkpurumilli.

Correspondent Emmanuel Chigbata, reports that the foundation established in 2013 is founded with the general purpose of helping the underprivileged and rendering humanitarian services to communities through a well-organized series of capacity building programs.

Flagging off the campaign, the founder of Ike Uke Foundation, Chief Victor Okolo, lamented the dangerous effects of  drug abuse among South East youths, adding that if something is not done urgently to remedy the situation, the country may not have future leaders.

Chief Okolo who stressed that the fight against hard drugs is a collective responsibility, called on parents and teachers to monitor their children and students and constantly enlighten them on the grave consequences of hard drugs.

Speaking on the topic “Drug Abuse and Effects on the Youths”, a youth ambassador to the foundation, Mr. Obinna Ani, urged the youths to abstain from drug abuse as it has ruined lives of many and negatively impacted on the society, while Prince Ikemefuna Onah, who made a situation report on the social and economic damages of drug abuse in South East stated that there is a steady decline in the economy of the region because some youth who indulge in drug addiction are perpetrators of insecurity.

In a lecture titled ‘Drug Abuse and Mental Ailments,’ a resource person, Dr. Chidimma Onyeagba, who urged the young ones to say no to drugs, explained that incessant abuse of substance would definitely result in memory impairment,  decline in behaviour coordination and decision making.

Earlier in his welcome address, the traditional ruler of Omasi, Igwe Benjamin Okeji, thanked the foundation for the campaign expressing optimism that it would impact positively in the lives of the youth.

The event which attracted both private and public-school children of Omasi community, featured free medical outreach and sensitization on teenage pregnancy and menstrual hygiene.