The Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani-Bello, has ordered the immediate closure of shops found engaging in sale of hard drugs, and the prosecution of operators of such pharmacies.

Governor San-Bello gave the directive when he played host to members of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers led by Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, in his office at the Government House, Minna, the state capital.

He expressed concern over the effect of drugs on the socio-cultural fabric of the state stating that his administration would deploy new strategy to address the menace.

He stressed that the fight against drug abuse will require the support of all stakeholders and relevant bodies to work harmoniously in blocking all supply channels.

“We will consolidate more on addressing security challenges in the state. We will give drug abuse priority because we noticed that most of the criminal activities are carried out under the influence of drugs.

“Having identified hard drugs as a major factor of criminal activities, we have to come up with strategy of blocking all supply channels and also follow up to ensure that black marketing does not flourish as a result of this,” he emphasised.

The governor assured the royal fathers that his administration will continue to work with traditional institution in the state, just as he commended the traditional rulers for the support they have given to his administration within the past four years.

“Your counsel, prayers and intervention has contributed strongly to whatever success story we have to tell. You have displayed extreme patriotism by using your respective positions to ensure harmony, togetherness and most importantly, you have played a big role in bringing the people together to achieve our common goal as people of Niger State.”

The Governor promised that his administration will continue to uphold the prestige and integrity of our traditional rulers, adding that the state government cannot afford to relegate the position of monarchs in the society because that will affect governance in every aspect.

Earlier, the Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, who spoke on behalf of the monarchs in the state assured the Governor of their support throughout his tenure and promised to continue to work for the peaceful coexistence of the people of the state.

The Estu Nupe expressed joy over his victory at the gubernatorial polls and prayed for a successful tenure in office, as well as for peace, growth and development of the state and the country.