The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the rising cases of drug trafficking, alcohol, and substance abuse has pledged to uncover individuals and corporate bodies involved in the illegal trade and ensure their prosecution.
Chairman of the committee, Hon. Timeyin Adelegbe (APC–Ondo), disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, stressing that the National Assembly would not allow Nigeria to become a dumping ground for toxic products, illegal drugs, predatory advertising, and unethical business practices.
Adelegbe said the committee would convene a multi-stakeholder fact-finding conference in Abuja and Lagos to gather evidence, expert opinions, and public input on strategies to curb the growing menace.
According to him, the initiative follows public concern over the surge in drug and alcohol abuse, which has become a national emergency threatening public health, youth safety, and corporate accountability.
“The committee is committed to carrying out its constitutional mandate to investigate and expose all forms of corporate and institutional misconduct contributing to the proliferation of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco-related abuse in the country,” Adelegbe stated.
Actionable Legislative Reforms Aimed at Strengthening Nigeria’s Response to Drug
He added that the investigation would focus on companies operating within the drug, alcohol, and tobacco industries, ensuring strict compliance with Nigerian laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
The planned conferences, he said, would feature two focus areas, one in Lagos, which will concentrate on alcohol, tobacco, port terminals, and the pharmaceutical industry, and another in Abuja, which will engage government agencies, NGOs, CSOs, and regulatory bodies.
Adelegbe explained that both conferences would serve as policy platforms for dialogue, expert recommendations, and the draughting of actionable legislative reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s response to drug and substance abuse.
He warned that any organisation or individual who attempts to mislead the committee, conceal, or falsify information during the investigation would be deemed in contempt of the National Assembly under Section 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
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The committee chairman reaffirmed the group’s commitment to truth, transparency, and accountability, describing the investigation as a patriotic duty rather than a witch-hunt.
“Nigeria must never become a dumping ground for toxic products, illegal drugs, predatory advertising, and destructive business practices. This committee stands firm in defence of the Nigerian people,” he added.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
