Drug Abuse Fuels Crime, Gang Violence in Kano, Says Taskforce Chair

Drug abuse is fueling a surge in crime and gang violence across Kano State, Nigeria, according to Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, Chairman of the Kano State Taskforce Committee on the Control of Drug Abuse and Illicit Substances. He stated that rising substance abuse, illicit drug trafficking, and gang-related violence prompted the Kano State Government to establish the multi-sectoral committee via an Executive Order signed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

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Drug abuse is a menace bedevilling our society. Our mandate is to block where these drugs are coming from, reform victims through rehabilitation and ensure that traffickers are prosecuted.

The committee's core mandate involves disrupting the supply chain of illicit drugs, providing rehabilitation for substance abuse victims, and ensuring the prosecution of drug traffickers. "Drug abuse is a menace bedevilling our society," Rimin Gado explained. "Our mandate is to block where these drugs are coming from, reform victims through rehabilitation and ensure that traffickers are prosecuted."

Rimin Gado emphasized a strong correlation between substance abuse and criminal activities, noting that individuals under the influence of drugs often engage in offenses like theft and violence. He specifically linked the activities of violent groups, known locally as 'Daba,' to drug abuse, stating that drug consumption frequently instigates clashes and retaliatory attacks among these groups. "The Daba issue is a by-product of drug abuse. In many cases, these violent clashes and reprisal attacks are influenced by drugs," he said.

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The Daba issue is a by-product of drug abuse. In many cases, these violent clashes and reprisal attacks are influenced by drugs.

The taskforce chairman voiced concern over alleged attempts by some parents and politicians to shield suspects from legal consequences, warning that such interference could jeopardize efforts to improve security in the state. "It is unfortunate that some parents always claim their children are innocent even when they are caught committing offences. Some politicians also interfere and try to secure the release of suspects. This must stop," he asserted.

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It is unfortunate that some parents always claim their children are innocent even when they are caught committing offences. Some politicians also interfere and try to secure the release of suspects. This must stop.

Rimin Gado assured the public that the committee remains steadfast in its mission and will not tolerate interference. "This committee was created to fight this menace. It is not for jokes, and I am serious about it. No politician can interfere with our work. There will be no compromise," he declared. He also urged parents and communities to actively participate in preventing drug abuse among youth, highlighting the importance of protecting children's futures.

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This committee was created to fight this menace. It is not for jokes, and I am serious about it. No politician can interfere with our work. There will be no compromise.