The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the Ayuele Clan Progressive Association, has intensified efforts to combat drug abuse and cultism in Edo State with a one-day symposium attended by students from twelve secondary schools in the State.

The symposium featured a presentation by the Edo State NDLEA Commander, Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, who warned of the growing prevalence of drug abuse and its strong link to cultism among youths.

Speaking on the theme “Anti-Drug and Cultism Campaign: The Role of Stakeholders,” Commander Ofoyeju stressed that tackling the menace requires collective action from parents, teachers, community leaders and law enforcement agencies.

“The fight against drug abuse and cultism is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement. It requires a collaborative effort from all sectors of society,” he said.

In his remarks, the President of the Ayuele Clan Progressive Association, Alhaji Abubakar Momodu, urged participants to take ownership of the fight to protect youths from destructive influences.

Students from schools, including Excellence School, Amina Foundation School, Hill Station School, Momodu College and Ayuele Secondary School actively participated in an interactive session, asking questions on how to resist drug abuse and cultism.

Other participating schools included Ugheole Secondary School, Unique Child Academy, An-Nur Comprehensive School, Young Intellectual Academy, Ughilde Secondary School, Elate Demonstration School and Spring Leaders School, Aveile.

The symposium ended with a collective resolve by stakeholders and students to promote safer communities and sustain advocacy against drug abuse and cultism, reinforcing the belief that protecting the youth is a shared responsibility.