Savanna News - thesavannaonline

Drug Abuse Among University Students: 24% Hooked on Tramadol, Research Reveals

A recent study has revealed that approximately 11.4% of university students in the northern region have been involved in the misuse of tramadol at some point. Alarmingly, 24% of these students have exhibited signs of dependence. These findings are published in the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Research, which is an international research journal.

Speaking on behalf of the Northern Regional Minister, Mr. Ali Adolf John Nburidiba, the Minister expressed concern. This occurred during a Stakeholders Strategy Mapping Meeting on Combating Drug Abuse held on Monday. He was worried about the growing trend and called for urgent action to address the issue.

The Minister noted that the research findings highlighted the vulnerability of young people to substance abuse. This could have potential consequences on the region’s socio-economic stability.

The meeting gathered key stakeholders from across the region. It focused on discussing strategies and initiatives to combat drug abuse in the area.

“The government is committed to combating drug abuse,” the Minister stated. He emphasised the need for a united effort to tackle the problem. He stressed that addressing drug abuse requires collaboration from government agencies. NGOs, religious and traditional leaders should work together. Educational institutions and the public must also collaborate.

Mr. Nburidiba urged all parties to be determined and committed. He highlighted the crucial role of collective action. This is essential in ensuring the region’s health and long-term well-being.

He also took the opportunity to advise the region’s youth to refrain from using tramadol and other substances. He encouraged them to focus on their health. They are the region’s future leaders.

The Northern Regional Security Liaison Officer, Mr. Adams Mohammed, also expressed grave concern over the increasing drug abuse problem among the region’s youth. He described the situation as alarming.

He cited statistics showing a 28% increase in drug-related arrests, with 1,200 school dropouts linked to the drug crisis.

Mr. Mohammed called for a broader collaborative response to address the menace. He emphasised that the issue’s complexity required coordinated action from various sectors. He outlined proposed measures. These included establishing a Regional Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force and joint enforcement operations. Additionally, he suggested community sensitisation campaigns and youth engagement programs. Finally, he recommended intelligence-sharing roundtables.

“Through these initiatives, the importance of collective action, decisive measures, and a united front to effectively combat the drug abuse crisis would be achieved,” he stated.

He concluded by reiterating the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders. This cooperation is essential to develop a comprehensive and strategic approach. Such a plan is crucial for tackling the pressing issue of drug abuse in the region.

Bolgatanga In the News: 8 Arrested in Kidnapping of Two Ghanaian Women Rescued in Nigeria

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has arrested eight individuals. They are connected with the kidnapping of two Ghanaian women, Anastasia Baidoo and Evelyn Serwaa Konadu.

The victims were seen in a disturbing viral video that sparked public outrage and prompted swift action by law enforcement. In the footage, one of the women was shown nude. She was assaulted with a machete. This prompted immediate intervention by the security agencies.

The first round of arrests occurred on May 1, 2025, by the Upper East Regional Police Intelligence officers. Four suspects—Christian Emeka, 27, Basil Okonkwo, 29 (Nigerians), Titus Mba Awuni, 25, and Amalbeo Alfred, 21 (Ghanaians from Bolgatanga)—were apprehended.

Further investigations led to the arrest of Marmah Mahasseh Nii Martie, 31. He was arrested in Teshie by the Police Intelligence Department in Accra.

Three additional suspects—Peter Okoye, 31; Paulinus Chidokwe, 35; and Chinonso Okafor, 35—were captured in Port Harcourt and Onitsha, Nigeria. The two victims were rescued during this operation.

The Director-General of CID, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, addressed the media in Accra. She confirmed the arrests. She also confirmed the successful rescue of the victims. She credited the joint operation between the Ghana Police Service, the National Signals Bureau (NSB), and the Nigerian Police Force.

“We are grateful to the NSB and the Nigeria Police Force for the collaboration in rescuing these women,” she said. “The suspects demanded a ransom of GH₵500,000 from each victim’s family. A total of GH₵18,000 was paid to various phone numbers provided by the suspects.”

Currently, both victims are in the custody of Nigerian authorities and have undergone medical checks. Efforts are underway to repatriate them to Ghana and to extradite the suspects.

In a separate case, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor announced the successful rescue of three Chinese crew members. They were kidnapped during a pirate attack on the Ghanaian fishing vessel Mengxin 1 near Nyanyano in April.

Reports revealed that seven armed men boarded the ship, fired warning shots, and abducted the three Chinese nationals. They were later found abandoned at a remote location in Nigeria.

Four suspects linked to the abduction were arrested following coordinated efforts by the Ghana Police and other relevant agencies.

DCOP Donkor emphasised the importance of inter-agency and cross-border collaboration in tackling transnational crimes.

“The success achieved in these cases underscores the critical need for enhanced cooperation between security agencies both locally and internationally,” she stated.

Three Arrested with Weapons in Savelugu

The Northern Regional Police Command acted on intelligence. They successfully apprehended three individuals. This was concerning alleged weapon smuggling in Savelugu, Northern Region.

The suspects were identified as Gaba Abdallah Alhassan, Alhassan Abdallah, and Alhassan Abdul Kudus. They were arrested on May 1, 2025, following a well-coordinated operation.

During the arrest, the police seized a variety of weapons and ammunition from the suspects. Among the items recovered were: one AK-47 rifle. There was also one submachine gun (SMG) and one Smith & Wesson SD40 VE pistol. A single-barrel gun and two magazines were found. The police recovered 15 rounds of AK-47 ammunition. They also retrieved 13 rounds of pistol ammunition. Additionally, there were 27 more rounds of ammunition and five BB cartridges.

The suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing. Once the probe is complete, they are expected to be arraigned in court.

GEOP Boosts School Enrolment in North East Region

The Ministry of Education (MoE) in Ghana supports the Ghana Education Outcome Project (EOF) / Education Outcome Fund (GEOP). It also receives backing from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO). Additionally, the World Bank and the Education Outcome Fund support the project. It has successfully increased school enrollment in its target communities. There is a particular focus on Mimima in the West Mamprusi Municipality of the North East region.

The initiative aims to engage out-of-school Children (OOSC). It integrates them into formal primary education. This strives for better literacy and numeracy outcomes.

Since its launch in 2023, approximately 21,316 children have been enrolled in the program.

The EOF/GEOP Complementary Basic Education initiative consists of three cohorts. Cohort 1 enrolled 6,619 children. Cohort 2 enrolled 7,467. Cohort 3 brought in 7,652 participants. Plan International Ghana is the primary service provider for the project.

Children in the program have undergone training in numeracy and functional literacy, taught in their native languages.

Amadu Mahama, the Project Manager for the Education Outcome Fund at Plan International Ghana, emphasised the project’s focus. He stated that it addresses illiteracy among children in rural areas.

“We initially targeted 20,000 children, but as of now, we have successfully enrolled 21,316 children back into school,” he explained.

He also noted that data suggests approximately 8 million children are currently without access to education. This underscores the importance of such initiatives.

The project is being rolled out in the Savannah, North East, and Bono East regions.

Mr. Mahama appealed to parents to let their children join the program. He highlighted a common challenge faced by the project.

“One of the challenges we face is parents’ willingness to send their children back to school, as many rely on them for support in economic activities such as farming. However, we have conducted community sensitisation efforts to help parents understand the importance of education, leading to increased consent for enrollment.”

God Has Proven My Innocence in the Bawku Conflict – Bawumia

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) candidate for the 2024 presidential elections. He has declared that the accusations made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have been thoroughly debunked. These accusations linked him to the Bawku conflict.

He explained that certain NDC politicians had wrongfully alleged his involvement. They claimed he was part of the ongoing dispute between the Kusasis and Mamprusis in Bawku. They claimed he had supplied weapons to the Mamprusis to attack the Kusasis.

“During the campaign, they spread lies about me. They falsely claimed I had purchased weapons for the Mamprusis to attack the Kusasis in the Bawku conflict. However, God has revealed their lies. Now, their Members of Parliament can’t even return to their hometowns,” he said.

Dr. Bawumia further pointed out that these falsehoods and unmet promises had created a difficult situation. NDC parliamentarians found it impossible to return to their constituencies.

He called for peace between the two feuding groups, emphasising, “All we want is peace because we are one people. We must not allow conflict to destroy the friendship we share; we need peace in Bawku for development.”

The NPP flagbearer urged the Mamprusis and Kusasis to engage with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. He encouraged them to work with the mediation committee to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict.

During his ‘Thank You Tour’ in Nalerigu, Dr. Bawumia expressed deep appreciation to the people of the North East Region for their strong support in the 2024 election.

He highlighted that the North East Region was the only area with an increase in the NPP’s votes. This happened in the 2024 general election.

“Our votes rose in the North East Region, while in other regions, we saw a decline. You showed me love, and I am grateful,” he remarked.

The former Vice President also shared that around 2.1 million citizens did not participate in the 2024 election nationwide. He dismissed claims that Ghanaians rejected the NPP due to his Muslim background.

“All the other candidates vying for the flagbearer position were Christians, and I was the only Muslim. 61% of NPP delegates voted for me to lead the party in the 2024 general election. I also reviewed the election results, and in 236 out of 276 constituencies where NPP parliamentary candidates were Christians, I received more votes than they did as a Muslim flagbearer. So the claim that we lost votes because I’m a Muslim is false,” he explained.

Dr. Bawumia also mentioned that the NPP had learned essential lessons from the Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye report. They sought forgiveness from Ghanaians. The party assured that they would emerge stronger when allowed to return to power in 2028.

“I am optimistic that the NPP will win the general election in 2028, so let’s stay united as a party,” he concluded.

Farouk Aliu Mahama celebrates his 44th Birthday with a group of PWDs and widows, in Yendi.

Farouk Aliu Mahama is the Former Member of Parliament (MP) for the Yendi Constituency. He commemorated his 44th birthday with a celebratory gathering at his residence. Attendees included members of the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) community as well as widows from the Yendi municipality.

In addition, the former Yendi MP generously provided rice and monetary aid to widows. He also supported PWDs, showing his commitment to their welfare.

The ex-Yendi MP emphasized the importance of showing love, care, and support to individuals with disabilities. He also stressed supporting widows. They are essential members of our community. It is crucial for us all to welcome and accept them.

He seized the chance to visit the Yendi Constituency. He extended his appreciation to voters for their support during the 2024 parliamentary elections. This was despite not winning.

He expressed his gratitude to everyone for their support during the election, regardless of the results. He also encouraged unity and continued dedication towards the growth and progress of Yendi.

Yendi | Northern Region

Seidu Agongo Donates Food to Vulnerable Residents in Upper East Region

Alhaji Seidu Agongo is a well-known businessman and philanthropist. He has joined forces with a local initiative. Their aim is to provide vital food aid. The beneficiaries are the vulnerable residents of Adaboya-Kunkoe. This is located in the Bongo District, Upper East Region.

The generous donation comprised 35 bags of maize. It was distributed on Monday, April 28. This distribution benefited numerous women in the farming community.

Around 70 elderly individuals received the donation. This group includes widows, single mothers, and those unable to farm due to illness or disability.

The community largely relies on subsistence farming. It has been grappling with the effects of unpredictable rainfall in recent years. This has resulted in poor harvests and increasing food insecurity. This donation was intended to ease the growing food shortages.

Mrs. Janet Abugre, a native of Adaboya-Kunkoe, is the coordinator of the annual donation initiative. She shared with the media that Alhaji Agongo’s contribution allowed them to expand their outreach this year. This expansion enabled them to assist more families.

“What began as an effort to support around 20 individuals has now grown to reach approximately 70 beneficiaries, thanks to Alhaji Agongo’s generous contribution,” Mrs. Abugre stated.

The donation is typically made in June, aligning with the planting season in the Upper East Region. However, this year’s distribution occurred earlier. It provided timely relief to those struggling with food shortages due to inconsistent rainfall and dwindling harvests.

The recipients expressed immense gratitude for the donation. It was distributed at a neutral location. This ensured dignity and avoided stigma.

“We provide food rather than cash to ensure households have access to vital nutrition,” Mrs Abugre explained. She added that each bag of maize was shared among three beneficiaries to maximize its impact.

Alhaji Agongo, an entrepreneur based in Accra, is known for his extensive philanthropic efforts across Ghana. He continues to demonstrate his commitment to uplifting marginalized communities through this partnership. He maintains a long-standing tradition of giving back to society. This has been noted by Mrs. Abugre.

While this year’s donation has provided significant relief, Mrs. Abugre emphasized that the community’s needs are still substantial, with many vulnerable individuals requiring continued assistance.

She hoped that more supporters, like Alhaji Agongo, would continue contributing to the initiative.

Locals In Kanvili Kpawumo Face Isolation, Safety Concerns Amid Downpours

Residents of Kanvili Kpawumo in the Tamale North Constituency face the risk of isolation after recent heavy rains washed away the main road linking the community to Kalpohin and surrounding areas.

Though Tamale has recorded just two major rainfalls this week, residents fear the situation will worsen as the rainy season intensifies.

Heavy downpours in Tamale have exposed the fragility of infrastructure in the Kanvili Kpawumo area. A section of the main access road, constructed just two months ago, has been washed away, leaving residents worried about accessibility and safety.

The rains have also overwhelmed poorly constructed drainage systems, which locals describe as inadequate for managing stormwater.

According to the Ghana Meteorological Agency, this year’s rainy season is expected to begin earlier and bring more intense rainfall, deepening fears of flooding and isolation among residents.

One resident, who declined to be named, was seen relocating her belongings, citing the deteriorating road and the absence of alternative routes.

“When it rains, it gets worse than this actually. The children even swim. They have a diving competition here. It is that bad, and the rain takes away all the stuff, as you can tell that is why I am leaving,” she said.

Mothers in the area expressed deep concern about the safety of their children, particularly the dangers posed by open drains and fast-moving floodwaters.

“I have a daughter who is four years old. She going through and seeing all this is heartbreaking. There was a time the water almost took us away, this is the only place I have in Tamale. Imagine it rains like this and the road is like this, how do I get home?,” another resident lamented.

Several residents also reported losing livestock during previous storms.

Calls are growing for authorities to construct a more efficient drainage system, especially around the Gariba Lodge area, which channels runoff through the community.

As the rains persist, residents are urging swift intervention to prevent further destruction and ensure their community remains connected and safe.

Source: channel1news.com | Shawana Yussif