A former convict, Kwaku Gardener, has shared how drug addiction led him into a life of crime, causing him to lose his freedom, family property, and future.
Speaking on the Lifestyle segment of Atinka Ghana Nie hosted by Ama Gyenfa Ofosu Darkwah, Mr. Gardener said his addiction began in senior high school after a friend introduced him to injectable drugs. He said what started as curiosity later developed into the use of cocaine and other hard drugs.
According to him, his addiction became so severe that he stole household items, money, and other valuables from his own mother to finance his drug habit. He also claimed he sold two family houses at Tesano to raise money for drugs.
Mr. Gardener further alleged that he forged documents resembling stop-work notices issued by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) to extort money.
He said his criminal activities led to 14 prison terms, with most of them lasting about two years.
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Reflecting on his time in prison, Mr. Gardener claimed that incarceration did not help him overcome his addiction. He alleged that drugs were easily available in prison, making it difficult for some inmates to stop using them.
Now reformed, Mr. Gardener says he is using his experience to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse. He urged the youth to avoid bad company, stay away from drugs, and seek help early if they struggle with addiction.
He warned that drug abuse can destroy lives, families, and promising futures if it is not addressed in time.
Click here to watch GHANA NIE – LIFESTYLE ((3RD aUGUST, 2026))
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