27/06/2026
PRESS RELEASE
His Majesty, Eze Onyekachi Amaonwu — Traditional Rulers’ Synergy with NDLEA, Security Agencies Critical in Fighting Drug Abuse and Crime
Port Harcourt, Rivers State
26th June 2026
His Royal Majesty, Eze Barr. Onyekachi Amaonwu, DSSRS, Eze Eberi-Ugo IX of the Ancient Eberi Omuma Kingdom, has stressed the need for stronger collaboration between traditional rulers, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and other security agencies in the fight against drug abuse, crime, and insecurity in communities.
The monarch stated this while delivering his address as the Royal Father of the Day during the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking organised by the NDLEA, Rivers State Command.
His Royal Majesty said the fight against drug abuse and crime cannot be left to security agencies alone, noting that traditional institutions remain important partners because of their closeness to the people and their influence at the grassroots.
He acknowledged the presence of the Rivers State Government representative, the NDLEA Rivers State Command, security agencies, traditional leaders, youths, women groups, students from secondary and tertiary institutions, and members of the media.
The traditional ruler explained that traditional institutions play vital roles through advocacy, community mobilisation, intelligence sharing, and awareness creation aimed at preventing drug abuse and criminal activities.
According to him, traditional rulers are trusted voices in their communities, and their involvement strengthens the efforts of security agencies in identifying challenges, promoting peace, and protecting the people.
His Majesty noted that the synergy between traditional rulers and the NDLEA will help deepen the fight against drug abuse, especially among young people, through education, prevention campaigns, and community participation.
He further stated that traditional institutions can support rehabilitation and reintegration efforts by encouraging affected persons to seek assistance and helping communities reduce the stigma associated with drug-related challenges.
Speaking on Omuma Local Government Area, Eze Onyekachi Amaonwu commended the security agencies and community stakeholders for their commitment to maintaining peace and stability.
He described Omuma as one of the peaceful local government areas in Rivers State and praised the cooperation between traditional institutions and security agencies in promoting security and development.
The monarch called for sustained partnership among traditional rulers, NDLEA, and other security agencies, stressing that addressing drug abuse is a major step towards reducing crime and building safer communities.
His Royal Majesty commended the NDLEA Rivers State Command for organising the engagement and expressed optimism that continued collaboration among stakeholders will strengthen efforts against drug abuse and crime in Nigeria.
Reported by:
Oluo Lucky
Media.