Emir of Gaya Orders Zero Tolerance for Drug Abuse, Trafficking

The Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, has directed ward, village and district heads across the Gaya Emirate to apprehend and hand over suspected drug offenders to relevant authorities for prosecution, regardless of their social status or position.

The Emir made the disclosure on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, when he received members of the Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking (MATFDAT) at his palace in Gaya.

He said the directive was part of the Emirate Council’s commitment to supporting efforts to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in society.

“We have already directed all our ward, village and district heads to apprehend and hand over any suspect to the authorities for prosecution, no matter how highly placed he may be,” the Emir said.

He also revealed that the Emirate Council had introduced drug screening for individuals being considered for appointments within the Emirate.

According to him, the measure was aimed at ensuring that people entrusted with responsibilities within the traditional institution were free from drug-related problems. He urged governments at all levels to consider adopting similar screening measures.

The Emir described substance abuse as a serious challenge requiring urgent and coordinated action from government, traditional institutions, communities and other stakeholders.

He commended Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for establishing the Task Force, stressing that the fight against drug abuse and trafficking must be a collective responsibility.

The Emir further called for firm and decisive prosecution of individuals found culpable of drug abuse or trafficking, saying drug screening alone would not be sufficient without effective enforcement of the law.

He assured the delegation of the Emirate Council’s continued support for the activities of the Task Force and expressed confidence that its members would make significant progress in tackling the menace.

The Emir also prayed for divine guidance, protection, wisdom and strength for members of the Task Force in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Task Force Seeks Royal Support
Earlier, the Chairman of the Task Force, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado, represented by Dr Aminu Magashi, said the delegation visited the Emir to seek his royal blessing and support for the activities of the Task Force.

Dr Magashi disclosed that the Task Force would soon organise a sensitisation meeting to raise public awareness about the dangers associated with drug abuse and trafficking.

He said Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf remained committed to tackling the problem, adding that the Task Force had recorded some successes within the short period since its establishment.

Dr Magashi expressed optimism that continued support from traditional institutions and other stakeholders would strengthen the campaign and help the Task Force achieve its objectives.

Signed:
Lamara Garba, mnipr
Member, Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, MATFDAT