The Paramount Chief of Odau for the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council and chief of Akyem Etwereso, Daasebere Ayebiahwe Ofosu Kwabi, has issued a powerful plea for the decentralisation of opportunities in Ghana, citing a direct link between a lack of work in rural communities and the growing prevalence of drug abuse and negative behaviour among the youth.

Speaking from his palace during the recent Akwasidae festival, Daasebere Ayebiahwe Ofosu Kwabi emphasised the dire consequences of widespread unemployment in areas outside major urban centres.

"Our youth are falling into drugs and bad attitudes because there is simply no work in our rural communities or areas," he stated emphatically to Eric Obeng Boateng of GhanaWeb.

The chief articulated a deeply held belief that idleness breeds trouble. "When you have work to do, you won't be wandering around exhibiting bad attitudes and constantly indulging in drugs," he explained. "The devil finds work for those who have no work to do."

In an earnest appeal to the government, Daasebere Ayebiahwe Ofosu Kwabi urged a more localised approach to economic development.

"I plead with the government to allow decentralisation in our districts," he implored. "Even if it involves private entities or companies, it would not be a bad outcome. At least our youth would have something to work for a living."

He further highlighted how economic empowerment could serve as a bulwark against manipulation and exploitation.

"You cannot buy them with small amounts of money to fool around or display bad behaviour in public when they have legitimate means of livelihood," the chief asserted.

The chief's remarks during the Akwasidea celebrations underscore a pressing issue facing many Ghanaian communities, where the concentration of economic activity in urban hubs leaves a significant portion of the population, particularly the youth, vulnerable to social ills due to a lack of viable employment prospects.

His call for decentralisation suggests a vision where development is more equitably distributed, fostering self-sufficiency and a more positive future for the nation's young people.