The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says the ban placed on tramadol has given rise to other forms of psychoactive stimulants.

The NDLEA Commander in Yobe, Mr Apeh Reupen disclosed this while speaking at the 2018 commemoration of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Thursday in Damaturu.

“Many emerging psychoactive substances are now being marketed in replacement of tramadol.

“The potency of these locally invented drugs is similar to the synthetic one.

“The emerging problem of the new psychoactive substances especially among the youth in the state is becoming a matter of serious concern,” Reupen said.

He added: “In spite of our campaign to reduce drug trafficking and abuse, record available still shows that the arrest and seizure of illicit drugs is on the increase.”

Reupen therefore appealed to states government and individual organisations to support the war against drug abuse.

“I call on all and sundry to rise to the occasion and wage credible war against this monster that has eaten deep into the fabric of the Nigerian society,” he said.

He commended sister agencies for their assistance especially in intelligence gathering and manpower support to the NDLEA.(NAN)