Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reiterated his firm commitment to enforcing strict laws aimed at curbing the growing menace of drug abuse across the state. The governor made this declaration while receiving the Assistant Controller General of Narcotics, Zone 12, Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mrs. Florence Ezeonye, who paid him a working visit at the Government House, Umuahia, on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
Governor Otti expressed deep concern over the rising cases of drug-induced crimes among young people, emphasizing that drug consumption often fuels criminal activities. “A lot of young people go into crime and then rely on drugs to fuel it,” he said, stressing that tackling substance abuse requires a multifaceted approach combining law enforcement, job creation, and rehabilitation.
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Applying the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule) to crime analysis, Otti explained that about 20% of criminals are habitual offenders who return to crime even after rehabilitation, while the remaining 80% are driven by poverty and lack of opportunity. He noted that his administration is focused on empowering this 80% through meaningful employment, economic empowerment, and the creation of a conducive environment for business and productivity.
“For us, the goal is not just to hand out money but to create jobs and opportunities,” he stated. “When people have meaningful work to do, they are less likely to indulge in drugs or criminal behavior.”
Governor Otti also called for tougher sanctions, including imprisonment, to effectively deter drug abuse and related crimes. He added that discussions are ongoing with the National Assembly to push for stronger anti-drug laws nationwide.
Responding to Mrs. Ezeonye’s request to relocate the NDLEA State Command from Aba to Umuahia, Otti assured that the proposal would be reviewed to determine the most effective location for operational efficiency and impact.
The governor commended Mrs. Ezeonye for her outstanding achievements in the NDLEA, describing her as an asset to the agency and to the nation at large.
In her remarks, Mrs. Florence Ezeonye applauded Governor Otti’s transformative leadership, noting the visible infrastructural developments across Abia State. “I lived in Aba during my tenure as State Commander, and when I returned, I barely recognized the city due to the massive infrastructural improvements,” she said.
She also conveyed the appreciation of NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Maruwa (Rtd.), for Governor Otti’s unwavering support, including providing accommodation for NDLEA officers, operational vehicles, and a modern rehabilitation center in Umuahia. Ezeonye further praised the governor for establishing the State Drug Control Committee a key component of the NDLEA’s nationwide anti-drug strategy.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s determination to make Abia a model state in the fight against drug abuse and criminality, emphasizing that drug-free communities are crucial for sustained peace and development.
