Despite growing national efforts to curb drug and substance abuse, some traditional leaders, public officials, and wealthy business elites are sabotaging the fight through silence, complicity, and direct involvement, says youth advocate and anti-drug campaigner, Amb. Ibraheem Ogunbanwo.
Ogunbanwo, who serves as Treasurer of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, said Nigeria’s struggle against drug abuse is being weakened by those entrusted with public trust and moral leadership.
“In several communities, palace grounds—symbols of morality and tradition—have become drug trading zones,” he stated. “Youths gather freely to consume and buy hard substances while traditional leaders turn a blind eye, or worse, benefit from the trade.”
Ogunbanwo accused some local politicians of shielding drug dealers in exchange for political loyalty or financial support, warning that such practices embolden criminal networks and send a dangerous message to young people.
“When public officials ignore drug abuse to protect vote banks or secure social peace, it breeds impunity,” he said. “It tells our youth that crime pays if you’re connected.”
He also raised concerns about certain business moguls whose wealth, he alleged, is tied to drug-related transactions. These individuals, he said, mask their activities with philanthropy and sponsorships, earning community respect while destroying lives in silence.
“Too often, we glorify wealth without questioning its source. That must end,” he urged.
Ogunbanwo called for stronger community accountability, political will, empowered youth advocacy, and fearless media reportage to confront the crisis. Traditional rulers must uphold ethical standards, he said, and government must investigate and sanction any official or elite found aiding drug networks.
“The fight against drug abuse cannot succeed if those meant to protect our youth are the ones enabling their destruction,” he concluded. “If we are truly serious about our future, then we must confront complicity in the palace, in government, and behind boardroom doors.”
Amb. Ibraheem Ogunbanwo is a Youth Ambassador, educator, and active voice in the campaign against drug abuse in Nigeria.