A Renowned Liberian Pastor, Philip Borbor Joshua has made a direct appeal to Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, urging him to implement an immediate ban on the importation, sale, and distribution of tramadol within the country.

Citing a recent visit where he witnessed the drug’s devastating impact, Pastor Joshua expressed deep concern over the growing addiction among Sierra Leonean youth and its potential to cripple the nation’s future.

In a formal letter addressed to President Bio, Pastor Joshua detailed his observations, stating, “During my recent visit to the country, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact this drug is having on the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of many young citizens.” He described the widespread abuse as “destroying individual lives” and threatening the future of Sierra Leone.

Pastor Joshua, who also has a son studying in Sierra Leone, conveyed his personal anxiety about the dangerous environment fostered by tramadol abuse. He emphasized the risk of losing an entire generation to drug dependency if swift action is not taken.

In his recommendation, the Liberian pastor’s appealed with President Bio to place a ban on the importation, sale, and distribution of tramadol without strict medical authorization, and to reinforce law enforcement efforts to prevent illegal tramadol shipments at borders and ports.

He further recommended a national awareness campaign targeting schools, communities, and media outlets to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse, and also increased support for rehabilitation programs to aid those already struggling with tramadol addiction.

“Protecting our young people from the scourge of drug abuse is not just an urgent need; it is an investment in the future stability, security, and prosperity of Sierra Leone,” Pastor Joshua stated in his letter.

He concluded by expressing confidence in President Bio’s leadership and commitment to the nation’s youth that it would lead to an effective resolution of the crisis.