Otti Calls for Tougher Drug Laws, Says His Government Will Tackle Crime Through Jobs and Justice

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to introducing stringent laws to curb drug abuse and its ripple effects on crime in society.

Governor Otti made the remarks on Thursday, October 16, during a courtesy visit at the Government House, Umuahia, by the Assistant Controller General of Narcotics, Zone 12 (Owerri), Mrs. Florence Ezeonye, who oversees NDLEA operations in Imo, Abia, and Anambra States.

The Governor lamented the link between drug use and rising criminal activities among youths, noting that many offenders rely on drugs to fuel their crimes. Explaining his approach using the 80/20 rule, Dr. Otti said that while 20% of criminals are habitual offenders who may remain unreformed, the remaining 80% are driven into crime by unemployment and poverty. He emphasized that his government is focused on creating job opportunities and an enabling environment to help the majority find meaningful engagement and abandon crime.

According to him, rehabilitation alone is not enough to combat drug abuse, calling for stricter penalties such as imprisonment to deter offenders. He disclosed that his administration is already engaging the National Assembly to support tougher anti-drug legislation.

Responding to a request from the NDLEA for the relocation of its state command from Aba to Umuahia, Governor Otti said the government would review the proposal to ensure that the agency operates from a location that best enhances its efficiency.

Earlier, Mrs. Ezeonye commended Governor Otti for his outstanding leadership and the visible infrastructural transformation across the state. She recalled her previous posting in Abia and said the progress made under Otti’s administration has been remarkable. She also conveyed the appreciation of NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Maruwa (Rtd), for the Governor’s support, which includes the provision of operational vehicles, residential accommodation, and a functional rehabilitation center for the agency.

Mrs. Ezeonye, accompanied by zonal and state NDLEA officers, praised Governor Otti’s proactive role in the state’s fight against drug abuse and expressed confidence that Abia would continue to serve as a model in effective drug control and youth rehabilitation.