Abuja: The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has attributed the involvement of women in drug trafficking to the erosion of societal values, greed, economic challenges, peer influence, and family background. The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr. Femi Babafemi, shared these insights in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Babafemi elaborated on the increasing vulnerability of women to the illicit drug trade, emphasizing that the factors leading women into drug trafficking mirror those affecting other offenders. He highlighted the absence of proper value orientation and upbringing as a significant trigger, noting that a lack of inculcated values from a young age leaves individuals susceptible to the temptation and pressure of engaging in illegal activities.
Babafemi identified greed and the desire for social recognition as key motivating factors for some women, who aspire to attain social status symbols associated with wealth and influence. Economic pressures also play a critical role, as financial hardships push some women towards drug trafficking as a means to alleviate their circumstances.
Environmental influences were also cited as pivotal, particularly for individuals raised in communities where drug trade is prevalent. Babafemi explained that prolonged exposure to such environments can normalize criminal activities, increasing the likelihood of participation. Peer influence was another factor mentioned, as many women are drawn into the trade by friends or acquaintances already involved, lured by the promise of quick financial gains.
The impact of social media and movies was also addressed, with Babafemi noting that some individuals are swayed by content that glamorizes drug cartels, leading them to mistakenly perceive the trade as an easy and rewarding venture. Additionally, marital challenges were identified as contributing factors, particularly for women experiencing emotional distress from troubled relationships.
Family history was another point of concern, with Babafemi citing instances of multiple generations within a family involved in drug trafficking. He stressed the need for stronger family values, community support systems, and public enlightenment campaigns to address the root causes of drug trafficking and discourage vulnerable groups from engaging in the illicit trade.
Babafemi reaffirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to preventive advocacy, public awareness, and law enforcement efforts to reduce drug-related crimes across the country.