In the impactful documentary “Swallowed by Drugs,” produced by Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen of Apexnewsgh, Rev. Thomas Abukari, Head Pastor of the Baptist Church and Chairman of the Christian Council in Bolgatanga, delivered a heartfelt and wide-ranging message on the escalating crisis of drug and alcohol abuse among youth. His words served as both a plea for immediate action and a call for deeper societal reflection, directed not only at young people but also at parents, regulators, and the entire community. Rev. Abukari opened by lamenting the tragic loss of young lives to substance abuse in this generation. “There are a lot of lives going down the drain as a result of substance abuse,” he said, urging community leaders and authorities to take firm steps. He highlighted how the easy availability of drugs and alcohol is a major contributor to the problem, stressing, “Wherever you pass, these substances are accessible. I plead with authorities: let’s restrict their flow in the market, so access is only possible with a medical prescription and supervision.” He further identified peer influence as a significant force shaping youth choices. “Peers can be good, but negative peer pressure leads many astray. The trigger is often wrong information, myths, and lies that convince youth that drugs will help them study longer, work harder, or fit in.” Rev. Abukari called for robust campaigns to correct such misinformation, particularly targeting misleading social media adverts that glamorize substance use. “There should be real monitoring to get these kinds of misleading adverts out of the system,” he insisted. Watch the full documentary below: Curiosity, he observed, often tempts young people to experiment with drugs, sometimes with disastrous consequences. “Some things, once you try, you keep going back. Before you know it, you’re caught in a cycle of dependence. It’s like the lesson from Psalm 1—you start by walking, then sitting, then staying in the wrong place. If you avoid it altogether, you avoid the trap.” Rev. Abukari cautioned the community against relying solely on religious condemnation. “Yes, substance abuse is sinful, but let’s not forget the physical and medical damage. Liver cancer, lung disease, and other illnesses are the consequences of these habits. Fasting and prayer are important, but the body suffers the physical consequences regardless,” he explained. He also warned about the influence of celebrities, pointing out that many young people look up to them without realizing that what is seen on screen is not always real life. “Some even claim they perform better because of drugs or alcohol. They are deceiving people. Celebrities should positively be role models, not promote destructive behavior.” Addressing the desire for quick wealth, Rev. Abukari debunked the myth that drugs help people work harder or earn more. “If you get the money but your health is destroyed, who benefits? Don’t waste your body chasing money only to spend it on hospital bills or more drugs.” He reminded the youth of the importance of rest, drawing on the Biblical example that even God rested on the seventh day. He shared personal anecdotes to highlight that individuals react differently to substances, warning that what works for one person may harm another. “If you see someone claim they can stay up all night on coffee or energy drinks, that may not work for you. Everyone’s physical makeup is different, and chasing those results could harm you.” Rev. Abukari called for a return to dignity and sound-mindedness among young people. “If children see you as an elder stumbling on the streets, what dignity do you have left? Drug and alcohol abuse destroys not only your body but also your social respect, your finances, your spirituality, and your future. Who wants to marry a drug addict, or entrust responsibility to someone whose mind is clouded by addiction?” He encouraged youth to seek joy and fulfillment in healthy, natural ways. “There are traditional drinks with health benefits. Say no to hard drugs and alcohol. Living well and enjoying life doesn’t require substance abuse.” Rev. Abukari concluded with a rallying cry: “We are the people of the future. The future of this generation lies in your hands. Be responsible, be sound-minded; this is what society and your families need. Reject drugs and alcohol, and build a life you, your family, and your community can be proud of.” Through his message in “Swallowed by Drugs,” Rev. Thomas Abukari provides both a warning and a beacon of hope, a call for unity, truth, and responsibility in the fight against substance abuse. Source: Apexnewsgh.com