Drug abuse in Northern Region now a national security threat – North America Dema Naa

The Entertainment Chief of the Dagomba Community in North America, Dema Naa Basha Ibrahim Iddrisu, has called for urgent stakeholder action to curb the drug abuse menace in the Northern Region.

According to him, drug usage and trafficking in the Northern Region have become a national security issue, necessitating immediate action from all stakeholders, including the government, to address the situation.

He emphasized that although many view the abuse of illicit and contraband drugs as primarily a health issue, it is also a significant threat to Ghana’s national security.

“Drug abuse is not only a health issue but also a threat to our safety and national security. It fuels crime, violence, and instability,” the Dema Naa of North America stated.

Speaking at the opening of a Nag’biegu Dance festival in Tamale over the weekend, which aimed to raise awareness of the dangers of illicit drug use, the Dema Naa noted that the time had come for everyone to join the fight to save the future of the youth.

“We are not just victims; we are also victors. We can make a difference. Every one of us has a role to play in the fight against drug abuse. Whether you're a parent, teacher, community leader, or simply a concerned citizen, your actions count. Let us educate ourselves and others; let us support those struggling with addiction, and let us demand action from our leaders,” he added.

Chief Alhaji Muhammad Umar, the Chief of the Dagomba Community in North America and Tunŋ Lana of Yelizoli in the Zabzugu District of the Northern Region, expressed concern over the absence of a rehabilitation center in the Northern Region.

He urged the government to fast-track efforts to complete the construction of the National Psychiatric Hospital, which, among other functions, would serve as a rehabilitation center.

He also stressed the need for the government to take a more active role in combating the menace, stating, “Private individuals alone cannot prevent drug abuse in the Northern Region or Dagbon. We need your help.”

Drug usage and trafficking in many parts of the Northern Region have reached alarming rates, with many young people engaged in the abuse of drugs and substances, including weed, cocaine, tramadol, and codeine, among others.