By Ebi Ageda
Izon Ladies Association (ILA) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have urged students at Ekeremoo to shun social vices capable of destroying their future and limiting their potential.
The call was made at the Government Model Secondary School (GMSS) in Ekeremoo Local Government Area of Bayelsa State
during a sensitization and advocacy programme on drug abuse, child abuse and cultism held at the school hall.
National President of ILA, Barr. Churchere Komonibo, said the outreach was part of the association’s commitment to steering young people away from destructive behaviours, particularly cultism and drug abuse, which have negatively affected many youths.
Addressing the students, she encouraged the students to remain focused on their academic pursuits and believe in themselves.
“Students, please focus on your academics. Never feel inferior to anyone. Tell yourself, ‘I am different.’ Work hard and ensure you become that lawyer, that doctor, or whatever you choose to become in life,” she advised.
In his remarks, Deputy Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA, Mr. Godwin Erepa, stressed that the fight against drug abuse requires collective effort. He warned students against risky gatherings where harmful substances could be introduced into drinks or food, emphasizing that drug abuse can destroy dreams and ambitions.
“There is nothing good in taking drugs. You cannot succeed in life while abusing drugs. Once you start, your ambitions may never be realized. Drug abuse and cultism bring fear, trauma and destruction,” he stated.
However, Mr. Erepa noted that drug addiction is treatable and urged families not to stigmatize victims, adding that the NDLEA operates rehabilitation centres to assist those battling substance abuse.
Also speaking, the National Publicity Secretary of ILA, Chief Mrs. Stella Ugolo, advised the students to uphold discipline, good character and moral values, noting that strong character is essential for success.
Delivering a lecture on child sexual abuse and domestic violence, CSP Grace Richman defined child sexual abuse as any inappropriate sexual activity involving a minor and warned that such acts can occur at home, in school or within the community.
She urged students to protect themselves and promptly report any form of abuse.
On the topic, “Say No to Cultism, Choose Your Future,” the Executive Director of Sustainable Partnership Initiative for Development (SPID), Mr. Philip Slabor, cautioned students against peer pressure and associating with bad friends, describing cultism as a menace that fuels violence and criminality.
“Do not allow money, gifts or promises to lure you into cultism. Choose education, discipline and hard work. These are the pathways to a better future,” he cautioned.
In his goodwill message, the Principal of GMSS, Mr. Williams Fetongha, commended the organizers for selecting the school for the timely and impactful programme.
In her closing remarks, the Bayelsa State President of ILA, Lady Pasisei Ikiomoton, urged the students to remember the lessons learned and seek help from trusted adults and authorities whenever necessary.
The Izon Ladies Association is a socio-cultural organization committed to promoting the culture and common interests of the Izon people, particularly women and the girl child
