NCCE Sensitizes Okada Riders at Pensanom on Dangers of Drug Abuse

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Amenfi Central District, has sensitized commercial motorbike (Okada/Pragya) riders at Pensanom on the dangers and legal consequences of drug abuse.

The engagement, held at the Pensanom Okada Station, brought together commercial motor riders, youth and other community members.

The District Director of the NCCE, Mr. Anthony Kelvin Amoo, said the Commission had observed with concern the increasing abuse of substances such as Tramadol, marijuana (wee), alcohol and other hard drugs among some riders, particularly those who use such substances to gain energy to work for long hours.

He cautioned that drug abuse could have serious consequences for both the riders and other road users, stressing that riding under the influence of drugs could impair judgement and increase the risk of road accidents.

“Many accidents on our roads are caused by riders who are under the influence of drugs. You are carrying human lives. If you are not in your right senses, you are killing yourself and killing someone’s mother, father or child,” he cautioned.

Mr. Daniel Kumi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), also educated the participants on the effects and legal implications of drug possession and use. He emphasized that, beyond the health, social and emotional consequences, drug possession and use could attract criminal sanctions under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019).

He urged the riders to desist from drug abuse and avoid activities that could put their lives and those of passengers and other road users at risk.

The Pensanom Okada riders expressed appreciation to the NCCE for the education. They acknowledged that some riders resort to drugs due to peer pressure, stress and long working hours, and pledged to support efforts to combat drug abuse within their ranks.

The NCCE urged the riders to say no to drugs and negative peer pressure, report drug peddlers to the Police or Assembly Member, and form peer-support groups to advise and encourage one another.

The Commission further encouraged the riders to rely on adequate rest, proper nutrition and responsible work practices rather than drugs for energy.

The NCCE indicated that it would continue with similar sensitization engagements at other Okada stations across the Amenfi Central District.