Gov. Umo Eno.
By Prince Efiok
Sensitising young people about the dangers of over-reliance on social media platforms for role models and yielding to peer pressure to indulge in violence, cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices has been given as a reason for the ongoing “Say No Campaign”, in Schools across Akwa Ibom State.
Senior Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on Ethical Orientation, Rev. Dr Osondu Ahirika disclosed this on Monday while speaking as a guest on the programme, ARISE Akwa Ibom on Comfort 95.1 FM Uyo.
The Governor’s Aide explained that since cultism and drug abuse have infiltrated primary and secondary educational institutions, the Say No Campaign is a values orientation drive to restore morality, self-discipline, civic responsibility, respect for authority and community norms, and the courage to resist negative peer influence among pupils.
Dr Ahirika said the Say No Campaign will be measurable to see how students have been inspired not only to reduce their vulnerability to recruitment into cult groups, drug addiction, and how they can rather become positive change agents against other prevalent anti-social activities.
He revealed that Pastor Umo Eno PhD is upbeat about encouraging young people to be focused on their academics or vocational engagements so they can be adequately equipped to contribute positively to their communities through creativity, innovation and volunteerism.
In a related development, the SSA on Ethical Orientation disclosed on another interview programme on Passion 94.5 FM, Uyo that several accomplished public figures including Akparawa Michael Bush , Mr Leo Leo Umana , Dr Harrison Harrison , Sir Ubong Ubong Emem Ekefre , Comrade Nene Affia, Clement Warrie and several NGO”s have already signed on to becoming ambassadors for change and mentors to strengthen the Say No Campaign for effective outreach to our young pupils across all schools in the State.
Dr Ahirika thanked radio stations and other media outlets in the State for their enthusiastic support for the campaign, expressing optimism that their support and endorsement for the Say No Campaign will immensely strengthen Governor Umo Eno’s initiative on ethical reorientation.
