The Chief of Pelungu in the Nabdam Traditional Area of the Upper East Region, Naab Serig Sore Sobil IV, has expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among the youth in the area, describing the situation as alarming and a serious threat to the future of the community.
The Chief made these remarks during the 8th Annual Yagle Kuur Festival held at Pelungu, a cultural event that brings together indigenes, traditional authorities, and stakeholders to celebrate culture, unity, and development. Addressing the gathering and speaking to the media on the sidelines of the festival, Naab Serig Sore IV lamented the drastic change in social behaviour among the youth over the years.
According to him, drug abuse, which was once rare and socially unacceptable in the community, has now become widespread. “Growing up as children in this community, it was very difficult to see someone smoking or abusing drugs. Today, it is everywhere, and the situation is very serious. We need to end this menace before it destroys our youth and our future,” he stated.
Naab Serig Sore IV called on the government, security agencies, parents, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to collectively tackle the problem. He stressed that the fight against drug abuse should not be left to the government alone but must involve chiefs, opinion leaders, families, and the wider community.
The Chief further urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for the upbringing of their children by monitoring their movements, peer associations, and lifestyles. He also appealed to teachers and educational authorities to intensify guidance and counselling in schools to educate young people on the dangers of drug abuse.
He noted that drug abuse among the youth has far-reaching consequences, including increased crime, school dropout, health complications, and the breakdown of family values, which ultimately hinders development in the area. “When the youth are destroyed, development becomes impossible. Our strength as a community lies in disciplined and hardworking young people,” he added.
Naab Serig Sore IV also encouraged the youth to desist from drug abuse and focus on education, skills training, and productive ventures that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to society. He assured them of the support of traditional leaders in promoting initiatives that create opportunities and promote positive lifestyles.
The Yagle Kuur Festival, which is celebrated annually, serves as a platform not only to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Pelungu people but also to address pressing social and developmental issues affecting the community. This year’s celebration placed strong emphasis on youth development, social responsibility, and community cohesion.
Participants at the festival echoed the Chief’s concerns and called for sustained public education, stricter enforcement of drug laws, and community-led interventions to curb the growing menace of drug abuse in the Nabdam Traditional Area.
Source: Bluewaves Radio 93.7mhz|Maurice Duncan
