Residents of Wa walk in protest of opioid trade & usage

Hundreds of residents in Wa have embarked on a mammoth walk as a protest against the sale of opioids and other illicit drugs within Wa township.

The peaceful protest, which was christened “inter-camp unity walk,” was championed by a formidable and large youth-based camp called “Jamaica Youth” in Wa, bringing together diverse groups of people, including the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), political party representatives, CSOs, security agencies, butchers and other youth groups.

According to organisers, the large-scale walk is seen as a display of unity and a strong warning against the sale and use of illicit drugs in the region.

They said Wa is reportedly gradually becoming a hub for opioid trafficking, hence the need to control the situation promptly.

Alhaji Ashmin Alhassan, a.k.a. Sisco, lead convener of the walk, strongly cautioned, particularly those trading in the drugs, to put a stop to their trade or relocate, as plans are being advanced to soon target them from their hideouts.

“… aaawu!! You stop the trade, aawu!!, You leave our region,” he vehemently stated.
Alhaji Sisco, while lamenting the impact of the illicit drugs, was quick to make a passionate appeal to the President.

“We are appealing to President Mahama to please allocate a concession to us. This will engage our youth and stop them from using drugs.

Morris Banaamwine, who represented the Regional Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), schooled participants on the commonly abused drugs, including shisha and tramadol 150 and 200, among others, and their effects.

ASP. Alhaji Iddi Ziblim, MTTD Regional Commander, while advising the youth to distance themselves from drugs, admonished them to also stay safe while using the road.

Research indicates that tramadol abuse has emerged as a crisis across West African countries over the past five years, with Upper West no exception.

Story by Ibrahim Abubakari Wangara