The Chief of Ejura Divisional Council, Barimah Osei Hwedie II, has called for concerted efforts to halt the rising cases of drug abuse in the country.

According to him, drug addiction among the youth is a threat to the country's future.

Speaking at the climax of the 2025 Ejura Sekyerene Festival, Barimah Osei Hwedie II appealed to the youth to refrain from drug abuse and other deviant behaviors.

"The current difficulties as a nation are partly due to the gradual surge of societal indiscipline, especially among the youth," he noted.

He added, "Drug abuse leads to deterioration of physical and mental health, an increase in crime rates, social unrest, and destruction of lives and properties."

The traditional ruler called for a collective and holistic approach by society in dealing with the canker.

The Chief of Esumenya, Odeneho Okyere Kusi Ntrama II, is worried about the loss of the youth to illicit drugs.

He shares similar sentiments with the Chief of Ejura, emphasising the need for a national approach in the fight.