The Odikro of Gomoa Dahom, Nana Kwaprah Abibio VII, has appealed to the Government of Ghana to take decisive action against the importation of hard drugs into the country, describing this situation as a growing national threat, particularly to the youth.

According to the traditional ruler, the increasing availability and abuse of hard drugs, such as Red and Tramadol, alongside other unapproved substances, is gradually destroying the future of many young people and undermining social stability in communities across the country.

He called on government authorities, security agencies, and regulatory bodies to ban individuals and pharmaceutical agencies involved in the importation and distribution of such drugs. 

Nana Kwaprah Abibio VII made these remarks during the Akwambo Festival celebrations held at Gomoa Dahom in the Central Region.

Expressing deep concern about the alarming rate at which young people are falling victim to drug abuse, he noted that many youths who should be contributing meaningfully to national development are instead becoming addicted to substances that affect their health, behaviour, and productivity. 

“The youth of today are gradually being destroyed by hard drugs. These substances are easily accessible, and their effects are clearly seen in our communities. Rising indiscipline, violence, health complications, and a general loss of focus among the youth,” the Odikro stated.

The chief stressed that while parents and traditional authorities are playing their part through education and community engagement, the problem requires stronger government intervention, particularly at points of entry into the country.

He urged the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Pharmacy Council, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and other relevant state institutions to tighten surveillance at the ports and borders to prevent the influx of illegal and harmful drugs.

Furthermore, he appealed to law enforcement agencies to ensure that individuals found importing, distributing, or selling hard drugs face legal consequences, adding that leniency only encourages the spread of the menace. 

“If the importation of these drugs is not checked, our communities will continue to suffer. 

"The government must show commitment by enforcing strict laws and punishing offenders to serve as a deterrent to others,” he emphasised.

Touching on the broader impact of drug abuse, the Odikro noted that the issue does not only affect individuals but also families and society at large. He explained that many homes are broken due to drug-related behaviour, while communities struggle with insecurity and moral decline.

Nevertheless, he called on parents, guardians, and religious leaders to intensify education on the dangers of drug abuse and to closely monitor the activities of young people under their care.

The Akwambo Festival, which brought together chiefs, elders, youth groups, and residents of Gomoa Dahom, served as a platform for the traditional leader to address critical social issues affecting both the community and the nation as a whole.

Nana Kwaprah Abibio VII reaffirmed the readiness of traditional authorities to collaborate with government agencies, civil society organisations, and the media to help combat drug abuse and safeguard the future of Ghana’s youth. 

During his submission, he urged the government to treat this issue as a national emergency, stressing that protecting the youth today is key to securing the country’s development tomorrow.