Entertainers, influencers must stop promoting drugs – Unilorin Don warns
Dr Abdulwaheed Atanda Isiaq, also known as Dr Lanko Theorist, has warned influencers and entertainers against promoting drug abuse, saying it is worsening the crisis among young people in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Second Kwara Stakeholders Summit, the University of Ilorin senior lecturer and entertainment boss stressed that drug abuse is on the rise, especially among the youth, due to economic hardship, unemployment, peer pressure, and mental health struggles.
Dr Lanko Theorist, who is the first lecturer to venture into hip-hop with the stage name Dr Theorist and has promoted several artistes, criticised the way drug use is glamorised in music, films, and social media.
He urged celebrities and content creators to use their platforms to discourage substance abuse rather than normalising it.
“Many young people look up to entertainers and influencers. If they keep promoting drug use, it will only push more youths into addiction. We need to change the narrative and promote positive lifestyles,” he said.
He also called for a shift from punitive measures to prevention and rehabilitation, emphasising the need for a multi-sectoral approach involving the government, civil society organisations, and religious bodies.
Dr Lanko Theorist urged authorities to focus on education, awareness campaigns, and community-based initiatives to curb drug abuse and support young people in making better life choices.
