Abia First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, Rescues Young Woman from Drug-Induced Mental Crisis
In a heartwarming act of compassion and leadership, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, wife of the Governor of Abia State, has intervened to rescue and rehabilitate a young woman, Miss Glory Benjamin, who was battling a severe drug-induced mental health crisis.
Miss Benjamin's plight went viral on social media after she was found wandering the streets of Asaba, Delta State, in a distressed state. The harrowing video, first shared by popular Instagram influencer Lord Zeus, highlighted the devastating effects of drug abuse. Upon learning that she hailed from Abia State, Mrs. Otti swiftly took action to ensure her rescue and rehabilitation.
Mrs. Otti immediately reached out to the Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Abia State, Mr. Chidi Nnadi, to coordinate a rescue operation. With the agency's support, Miss Benjamin was safely recovered and taken for medical evaluation, where doctors confirmed that she had been abusing hard drugs, including methamphetamine (commonly known as "Mkpuru Mmiri"), cannabis, and cigarettes. These substances had severely impacted both her mental and physical health.
Recognizing the urgency of her condition, Mrs. Otti made personal arrangements for Miss Benjamin’s admission into a rehabilitation center in Aba, assuming full financial responsibility for her treatment. Her intervention not only ensured the young woman’s safety but also provided her with a real chance at recovery and reintegration into society.
Mrs. Otti's actions reflect her deep commitment to addressing drug abuse, a growing issue among youth in Nigeria. As the Chairperson of the Abia State Drug Control Committee, she has been actively involved in drug prevention, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation efforts. Her leadership has also led to the establishment of an additional drug treatment and rehabilitation center in Umuahia, further strengthening the state's capacity to assist those struggling with addiction.
During the rescue mission, NDLEA Commander Chidi Nnadi highlighted the severity of the drug crisis in Abia State, revealing that:
40 individuals are currently undergoing rehabilitation in the state.
60 more individuals are awaiting admission for drug treatment.
40 drug traffickers have been successfully prosecuted.
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among government agencies, families, and communities to combat the menace of substance abuse effectively.
At the rehabilitation center, two recovering patients shared their personal stories, offering insight into the devastating grip of addiction and the transformative power of structured support. Their testimonies underscored the importance of rehabilitation centers in helping victims regain control of their lives.
Mrs. Otti's intervention in Miss Benjamin's case is a testament to the belief that every life is worth saving. Her hands-on approach, financial commitment, and advocacy for drug-free communities are shaping a brighter future for Abia's youth.
The First Lady's efforts go beyond policy-making; they embody true leadership in action. She has reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that no one struggling with addiction is left behind. Through compassion, swift response, and unwavering dedication, she continues to make a significant impact in Abia State-one life at a time.
