The National Drug Law Enforcement (NDLEA) has issued a public cry out about the negative use and sales of nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas that people use to get ‘high’.
In a strong effect to curb this public menace, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.) has issued a strong warning about the effects of this drug and directed all force to arrest anyone illegally selling or using it.
This is coming after the Punch reported that there has been a rise in the abuse of nitrous oxide and the medical experts stated that the laughing gas can cause brain damage and nerve damage.
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It was added that nitrous oxide is used for sedation and pain relief, however, it is now abused by youths who use it to get high.
Explaining further the implications, they stated that the inhale of laughing gas can cause mental disorders known as schizophrenia or psychosis.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the director, Media and Advocacy, of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi said analysis carried out showcased that people who abuse it can suffer dizziness, , disorientation, headache, neurological complications, and psychiatric symptoms.
The NDLEA further warned parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to warn their young ones to stay away from the use of nitrous oxide or they will be dealt with.
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Tinubu, others say drug addicts need sympathy, not stigmatization
Meanwhile, president Bola Ahmed Tinubu assured that he was going to work closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and its international partner to curb drug abuse in the country.
This statement was made on Monday, at the State House, Abuja in the opening address to celebrate this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.
According to Punch, Tinubu urged everyone to take a gentle approach to drug abusers as he noted that they were also humans and should be treated like one.
