By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, has expressed deep regret over the recent execution of some Anambra youths in Indonesia for drug trafficking offences.
Reacting to the viral video showing the incident, the Commissioner described the situation as highly pitiable and unfortunate, noting that the loss of such able-bodied young men, who could have contributed meaningfully to society, is a huge tragedy for their families and the state.
He emphasized that the incident reinforces the importance of the ongoing campaign by the Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led administration for systematic investment in youth development across communities.
Hon. Agha Mba reiterated that rather than mourning alone, efforts should be channeled towards doing the right thing by following the government’s message and initiatives already in place to empower the youth.
“It’s quite pitiable and highly regrettable, the way and manner we lost such able bodied youth, who would have been contributing positively to the development of their families and the society.
“However, it goes a long to buttress the campaign by Mr. Governor on the necessity of ‘Ndi Anambra Jiri Biri’ investing seriously and systematically in the development of the youth of their communities.
“This kind of incident is not just about crying but trying to do the right thing and the follow the message of Mr. Governor,” he stated.
The Commissioner highlighted the 1Youth2Skills Solution programme of the Anambra State Government, which has successfully produced youths who are not only productive within Nigeria but also globally competitive. He noted that the government, through the Ministry of Youth Development, is prepared and has created the right platforms to equip the youth with skills that ensure economic productivity and reduce the lure of illicit ventures abroad.
Meanwhile, it will be recalled that Governor Chukwuma Soludo had earlier revealed that 23 Anambra indigenes are currently on death row in Indonesia over drug-related offences. Speaking on April 9, 2025, during an event where members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) defected to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Governor Soludo lamented the deception by some native doctors who falsely assure drug traffickers of invisibility through charms.
“Go to Indonesia, 23 Ndi Anambra are on death row there for drug-related offences. These native doctors will deceive you that they will prepare a charm that when you carry drugs and enter the airport, the white man’s scanner will go blind,” the Governor had stated.
Howbeit, the State Government has continued to urge the youth to take advantage of available empowerment programmes and avoid illegal and dangerous pursuits abroad.
Watch the video below:
