Tema: Nii Adjetey Agbo II, the Mankralo of Tema and acting President of the Tema Traditional Council, has urged the newly appointed Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) to address the pressing issue of drug abuse among the youth in the region. Nii Agbo highlighted the troubling use of tramadol and other painkillers, commonly referred to as “Red,” as well as marijuana, particularly in the area of Tema Manhean.

According to Ghana News Agency, Nii Agbo raised these concerns during a meeting with Ms Ebi Bright, the new Tema MCE, who visited the Traditional Council to officially introduce herself following her confirmation. He expressed deep concern about the visible impact of substance abuse, stating, “the youth here are taking red, alcohol, and wee; and you will see them in town sleeping while standing. This is very worrying.”

Nii Agbo emphasized the responsibility of the MCE, as the head of the Metropolitan Security Council, to collaborate with the police to suppress drug-related activities and dismantle safe havens for such acts in Tema Manhean. He stressed the importance of collective action, remarking, “If we don’t rise up and work together to save the situation, what will happen to the future generation?”

The acting chief assured that traditional leaders are committed to identifying and reporting drug peddlers and users to law enforcement, with the expectation that legal consequences would deter others. He also urged community solidarity and cooperation among authorities to foster peace and development, advocating against divisions that could hinder progress.