Goskolo Ban: In a bid to combat rising violence and drug abuse in Plateau (Nigeria), the Sharing Education and Learning for Life Foundation, an NGO, is advocating for the prohibition of Goskolo, a locally consumed gin. Mr. Beji Jibe, the Programme Coordinator, emphasized the direct link between violent conflicts and the consumption of Goskolo. During a two-day training session for CSOs and stakeholders on policy influence and implementation, Jibe underscored the hindrance posed by external factors to their peace-building initiatives.
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Battling Goskolo Menace:
The NGO contends that stringent policies and laws are crucial for curbing the escalating consumption of Goskolo, which not only poses health risks but also undermines peace-building efforts in the state. Despite previous attempts in 2016 to pass a bill banning the production, sale, and consumption of Goskolo, the State Executive Council’s efforts were thwarted in the House of Assembly.
Goskolo Legislative Progress
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2016 | State Executive Council Presents Bill |
| 2016 | Bill Not Passed in House of Assembly |
| 2023 | NGO Calls for Stringent Ban |
| Ongoing | Advocacy for Renewed Legislative Efforts |
Unraveling the Impact:
Jibe lamented the pervasive influence of Goskolo and illicit substances on the state’s youth, hindering the desired impact of peace-building initiatives. He expressed concerns about the absence of legislation prohibiting the brewing and consumption of Goskolo, highlighting its direct correlation with violent conflicts. The NGO asserts that addressing drug abuse, particularly Goskolo-related cases, necessitates immediate legal measures for effective implementation.
Goskolo Impact Statistics
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Violent Conflicts | Linked to Goskolo and Drug Abuse |
| Proposed Legislation | 2016 Bill – Production, Sale, & Consumption |
| Advocacy Efforts | NGO Training for Policy Influence |
| Personal Tragedy | Martha Paul’s Loss and Plea for Ban |
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Challenges on the Frontline:
Mrs. Martha Paul, a 60-year-old resident of Tudun Wada, shared the personal tragedy of losing her son to addiction to Goskolo. She stressed that a ban on the local gin would help mitigate the challenges associated with its consumption. This personal account adds a human dimension to the urgent need for legislative action, emphasizing the human toll of the Goskolo menace.
“There is nowhere you have violent conflicts in Plateau that it will not be linked to ‘goskolo’ or drug abuse,” – Beji Jibe, Nigerian NGO coordinator
Legislative Hurdles:
Despite previous efforts by the State Executive Council in 2016 to pass legislation against Goskolo, the bill faced roadblocks in the House of Assembly. The lack of a legal framework has allowed the proliferation of Goskolo and contributed to the persistence of drug-related issues in Plateau. The NGO calls for renewed efforts and collaboration to ensure the swift passage and implementation of a ban on Goskolo to safeguard the well-being of the community.
The urgent need to address the Goskolo crisis in Plateau demands decisive action. The Sharing Education and Learning for Life Foundation’s plea for a stringent ban on Goskolo reflects the pressing need to protect the youth, preserve public health, and fortify peace-building endeavors. As the state grapples with the repercussions of Goskolo-related conflicts, the call for legislative action becomes more critical than ever. It is a collective responsibility to prioritize the well-being of the community, and enacting a ban on Goskolo is a crucial step toward lasting peace in Plateau.
FAQs:
Q: Why is Goskolo specifically targeted for a ban?
A: Goskolo is linked to violent conflicts and widespread drug abuse in Plateau, hindering peace-building efforts.
Q: Have there been previous attempts to ban Goskolo?
A: Yes, in 2016, the State Executive Council presented a bill, but it faced obstacles in the House of Assembly.
Q: How does Goskolo impact the youth in Plateau?
A: The NGO highlights the detrimental effects of Goskolo on youth, citing health risks and its role in conflicts.
Q: What external factors impede peace-building initiatives?
A: The NGO points to external influences hindering the impact of their peace-building efforts in Plateau.
Q: How can individuals contribute to the Goskolo ban advocacy?
A: Supporting NGO initiatives, raising awareness, and engaging with local authorities can contribute to the cause.