AAC Presidential candidate Omoyele SOWORE condemns destruction of cannabis crops, says Nigeria cannot “burn its way out of poverty”
Presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over its continued destruction of cannabis farms across Nigeria, describing the policy as economically wasteful and outdated.
Sowore, in a strongly worded statement, questioned the rationale behind destroying cannabis crops with significant economic value at a time when Nigeria is grappling with widespread poverty and economic hardship.
“It is idiotic NDLEA to wake up, put on uniforms, march into farms, and set economically viable crops worth millions of dollars ablaze while your country is drowning in multidimensional poverty,” Sowore said.
He called on the Federal Government to halt the destruction of cannabis farms and reconsider its approach to the plant, arguing that Nigeria could benefit economically from a regulated cannabis industry.
“Stop destroying cannabis farms. Stop wasting enormous economic opportunities in the name of a failed and outdated policy,” he said.
Sowore advocated the legalisation and strict regulation of cannabis, arguing that the plant could be developed for legitimate medicinal and industrial purposes.
According to him, investment in research and regulation could create employment opportunities, generate government revenue and establish a viable industry capable of contributing to Nigeria’s economy.
“You cannot burn your way out of poverty, foolish people!” he added.
His comments come amid ongoing debate over Nigeria’s approach to cannabis cultivation and whether the country should move towards a regulated framework that permits legitimate medical and industrial uses while maintaining controls against illicit drug trafficking.
