JIBWIS Chairman Calls for Tougher Prosecution of Drug Offenders in Kano

The Chairman of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa Ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), Kano State, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan, has called for firm and decisive legal action against drug offenders, warning that inadequate prosecution of those involved in drug abuse and illicit trafficking is worsening social challenges in the state.

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.

He identified what he described as inadequate prosecution of drug offenders as one of the major factors contributing to the deterioration of society, urging relevant authorities to ensure that offenders face appropriate legal consequences.

Professor Pakistan commended Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for establishing the Multi-Agency Task Force, describing the initiative as a strategic step towards tackling drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the state.

According to him, effective control of the sale and consumption of illicit drugs would help address several social vices and security challenges confronting Kano State.

The JIBWIS chairman pledged the full support of the organisation to the Task Force and called on other stakeholders to join the campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

He also advised the Task Force to organise special engagements with identified thugs and other vulnerable groups across communities, with ward and village heads facilitating the meetings.

Professor Pakistan further recommended the involvement of Islamic scholars and respected elders from affected communities in such engagements, saying they could help counsel and admonish young people on the dangers of drug abuse, violence and other social vices.

He stressed that the fight against drug abuse required a collective effort involving government agencies, religious leaders, traditional institutions, community leaders, parents and other stakeholders.

The JIBWIS chairman also pledged to mobilise members of the Ulama to offer prayers for the success of the Task Force and its campaign against drug abuse in Kano State.

He prayed for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and described the establishment of the Task Force as a strategic initiative aimed at confronting one of the major challenges facing society.

Task Force Seeks Support of Ulama

Earlier, 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 the support needed to achieve its mandate.

Rimin Gado described the Ulama as strategic partners in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, noting that religious leaders wield considerable influence in mobilising communities and raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.

He said the Task Force would continue to engage religious and traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders as part of efforts to prevent drug abuse, combat illicit trafficking and protect young people from the consequences of drug-related activities.

The Task Force chairman expressed appreciation to Professor Pakistan for his willingness to support the initiative, saying the collaboration would strengthen community mobilisation, public enlightenment and the collective response to the drug menace in Kano State.

Signed:
Lamara Garba, MNIPR
Secretary, Media and Publicity Committee
Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking