In a speech delivered during Eid-ul-Fitr prayers last Wednesday, the Resident Minister Northwest Region, Ambassador Umaru Bond Wurie, urged young people to avoid protesting the recent arrest of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) Northwest Regional Organizing Secretary, Abu Bakarr Konteh aka DJ Boxx.

Addressing a mammoth gathering of Muslim worshippers at the Sendugu praying field, the Resident Minister extended Eid-Mubarak greetings and thanks to the Jamaat for completing the Ramadan fast. The Minister however disclosed intelligence suggesting plans for youth protests over Konteh’s arrest. He therefore appealed for calm and urged everyone to maintain peace.

Ambassador Bond Wurie also highlighted growing concerns about the rampant consumption of Kush, a dangerous drug, particularly among young people. He reminded the audience of the recent State of Health Emergency on Drug and Substance Abuse declared by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and emphasized the community’s role in combating the menace.

The Minister implored parents to act as primary security for their children, advocating for cross-parental vigilance and collaboration with security forces to fight the spread of this harmful substance.

The Eid-ul-Fitr prayer ceremony brought together Muslim residents from across Port Loko City. Sheik Elmu Kargbo of the Gbalakinta Mosque led the prayers, which followed statements from various stakeholders, including the police, Section Chiefs, the Chiefdom Speaker, the District Council of Imams and the Resident Minister himself.