The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof Nimah Abdulraheem, has urged the students of the better by far University to say ‘No’ to drugs.

Prof. Abdulraheem made this call last Wednesday (June 26, 2024) while speaking at the International World Drug Day programme organised by the Drug Abuse Control and Counselling Club, Unilorin Chapter. The event, themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”,  held at the Faculty of Law Moot Court.

The Dean, in her opening remarks, maintained that drug abuse is a pervasive problem that affects individuals, families, and societies at large, noting that “it knows no boundaries and can touch anyone, regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, or educational background”.

She pointed out that “as members of the academic community, and particularly within the Faculty of Law, we have a responsibility to not only pursue knowledge but also to address the societal issues that threaten the fabric of our communities”.

Prof. Abdulraheem noted that as future legal practitioners and scholars, students will encounter the ramifications of drug abuse in various capacities, whether through criminal defense, prosecution, policy-making, or advocacy, adding that their role in addressing the issue is critical.

She told the students that “it is essential to understand the multifaceted nature of drug abuse, which encompasses physical, psychological, and social dimensions”.

The Dean then challenged the club members on what they can do better for the society as the slogan of their club states ‘Your wellbeing, our priority’.

She appreciated the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, for his unwavering support for the Club, Prof Bashir Omipidan and Prof Mubarak for their financial contributions towards the success of the programme.

In his speech the Guest Speaker, who is an Assistant Commander with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Alhaji Toyin Ajanaku, explained that “the consequences of drug abuse are far-reaching, impacting not just the health and well-being of the individual, but also their families, communities, and the legal system”.

Alhaji Ajanaku noted that for students to know about drug abuse, they need to acquire information on drug abuse and know the secondary prevention methods such as rehabilitation, among others.

As the way out of the drug abuse menace, Alhaji Ajanaku said, “We must advocate for policies that balance justice with compassion, ensuring that those struggling with addiction receive the support and treatment they need to recover and reintegrate into society”. He urged t Schools to have recreational activities, and not overburden students, establish drugs penalties and conduct interim test for students on drugs.

The Head of the Department of Political Science who is also the Staff Adviser of the Club, Dr Adebola Bakare, advised the students to stay away from drugs. He maintained that drug abuse is becoming extremely high in the society, especially among students. He said this is caused by peer influence or out of coercion, and curiosity.

Dr Bakare noted that our legal system plays a crucial role in combating drug abuse, but it is not the only solution. He maintained that effective strategies require a holistic approach, combining law enforcement with prevention, education, and rehabilitation.

Major highlights of the event included interschool debate competition between Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, and St. Anthony Secondary School, Ilorin quizzes, and giveaways, among others.