The Chairman of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa Ikamatus Sunnah, JIBWIS, Kano State, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan, has called for firm prosecution of drug offenders as part of efforts to address drug abuse, illicit trafficking and related social vices.
Professor Pakistan, a former Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, made the call when the Chairman of the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, paid him a courtesy visit in Kano.
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The JIBWIS Chairman identified inadequate prosecution of drug offenders as one of the factors contributing to worsening social challenges, urging relevant authorities to ensure that offenders face appropriate legal consequences.
He commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for establishing the Multi-Agency Task Force, describing it as an important step towards tackling drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Kano State.
Professor Pakistan said effective control of the sale and consumption of illicit drugs could help address some of the social vices and security challenges confronting the state.
He pledged the support of JIBWIS to the Task Force and called on other stakeholders to join efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
The JIBWIS Chairman also advised the Task Force to organise special engagements with identified thugs and other vulnerable groups across communities, with the support of ward and village heads.
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He recommended the involvement of Islamic scholars and respected elders from affected communities in such engagements to counsel youths on the dangers of drug abuse, violence and other social vices.
Professor Pakistan stressed that tackling drug abuse was a collective responsibility requiring the involvement of government agencies, religious and traditional institutions, community leaders, parents and other stakeholders.
He also pledged to mobilise members of the Ulama to offer prayers for the success of the Task Force and the campaign against drug abuse in Kano State.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, said the visit was part of the Task Force’s strategic engagement with critical stakeholders to build partnerships and secure support for its mandate.
Rimin Gado described the Ulama as strategic partners in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, noting that religious leaders have significant influence in mobilising communities and creating awareness about the dangers of drug-related activities.
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He said the Task Force would continue to engage religious and traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders to prevent drug abuse, combat illicit trafficking and protect young people from the consequences of drug-related activities.
The Chairman appreciated Professor Pakistan for his willingness to support the Task Force, saying the collaboration would strengthen community mobilisation, public enlightenment and the collective response to drug abuse in Kano State.