By Amos Harris
Former President of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), Charles B. Coffey Jr., has issued a passionate call for renewed patriotism and national unity to combat Liberia’s escalating drug crisis, warning that substance abuse poses a grave threat to national security and the future of the nation’s youth.
Describing the proliferation of illicit drugs as one of the greatest dangers facing Liberia today, Mr. Coffey urged citizens across all sectors of society to join forces in eradicating drug trafficking and abuse. He commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., the Joint Security forces, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), and the National Security Council for stepping up operations to dismantle drug networks throughout the country.
While acknowledging troubling reports regarding the alleged involvement of a few security personnel in drug-related crimes, Coffey cautioned against allowing isolated bad actors to undermine the government’s wider anti-drug initiatives. He emphasized that officers dedicated to eradicating the drug menace deserve the unwavering backing of patriotic citizens.
Stressing that the crisis transcends partisan divides, Coffey declared that the battle against harmful drugs is fundamentally a fight for the nation’s survival. He noted that every youth rescued from addiction represents a victory for Liberia, while bringing drug traffickers to justice marks a vital step toward restoring national dignity and hope.
The former media union leader further highlighted the devastating toll of substance abuse, explaining how it destroys families, drives crime, undermines the educational system, and deprives the country of a productive workforce. He asserted that Liberia cannot achieve sustainable development while a significant segment of its young population remains trapped in addiction.
To combat the crisis effectively, Coffey urged citizens to overcome fear and report drug dealers and their accomplices, regardless of their social standing, wealth, or political connections. Alongside law enforcement measures, he called on parents, community leaders, religious bodies, schools, youth organizations, and the media to step up public awareness campaigns and prevention efforts.
Coffey also charged law enforcement agencies to maintain strict professionalism, impartiality, and adherence to the rule of law, insisting that no offender should be shielded from prosecution due to official status or political influence. Concluding his remarks, he emphasized that defeating the drug crisis requires a collective national commitment, urging all Liberians to put aside political differences and work together toward a safer, healthier, and drug-free nation.
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