NMA Raises Alarm Over Rising Cases Of Suicide In Nigeria
By Godwin Joseph
Lafia
The Nasarawa State branch of Nigerian Medical Association, (NMA) has expressed concern over the rising cases of suicide in the State and nation, and assured its readiness for adequate prevention through sensitization.
NMA chairman in the State, Dr Bulus Peter stated this on Wednesday (October 9, 2019) in Lafia while briefing journalists over the rising cases of suicide in the country.
He said the sale of substandard and counterfeit drugs in motor parks, major towns and rural areas across the country by unlicensed persons are major contributors to the death of many which he said are callous and unpatriotic.
Dr. Peter called on people in the State to desist from patronizing unlicensed drug dealers considering the adverse effects on their heath.
According to him, the people need to be sensitised on the negative effects of suicide, adding that “young people must know that suicide is not an option; you don’t need to take your lives because of frustration.”
He called on communities and families to pay special attention to their families, adding that neglect by parents remained a key factor that contributes to increasing cases of suicide.
On substandard drugs, the NMA chairman said the task of eradicating substandard drugs in Nigeria is said to be the responsibility of all, including government, regulating agencies, stakeholders and the consumers.
He claimed that most fake and substandard drugs sold by street hawkers and unregistered pharmaceutical outlets have health implications which result to early deaths.
He called on the people of the state to patronize only pharmaceutical outlets that are duly registered with the various regulatory agencies.
He further said that the NMA in the State has strengthened partnership with the State Government to address the circulation and consumption of illicit and substandard drugs in the state.
He also commended the State Government for taking decisive steps toward clamping down on illegal drug dealers and unlicensed medicine outlets, especially in Karu and Lafia Local Government Areas of the State.
