EVALUATING THE ROLES OF TRADITIONAL RULERS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUG ABUSE IN AKOKO NORTH WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE

Abstract

Globally, drug abuse has assumed alarming level which has necessitated government at all levels to declare it as a public health issue. Consequently, all hands are on deck to tackle the menace of drug and substance abuse. The situation is worsened with the transnational nature of drugs sales, distribution, and consumption.  In Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, a body that was set up to tackle the menace of drug abuse has sought collective actions through  collaboration with other agencies of the state like National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, banks, security agencies, media, educational institutions and traditional rulers. The collaboration with traditional rulers is predicated on the premise that crimes are local, therefore, it is necessary to engage a vital institution that is closer to the people. The study main objective is to assess the effectiveness of traditional rulers’ roles in tackling drug abuse in Akoko Northwest of Ondo state. Relevant literature were reviewed while Social Deprivation Theory was adopted as theoretical framework. The study method of data collection was through interview while primary and secondary data were used and method of data analysis was qualitative. Findings from the study showed that there is prevalence of drug abuse in Akoko Northwest and the collaboration with traditional rulers by NDLEA has helped in educating residents of the local government on the adverse effects of drug abuse. Creation of employment and strengthening of traditional institution are some of the study recommendations.