In recent times, there has been a growing concern over the increasing number of young individuals who are getting caught up in the cycle of drug abuse. The stories shared by different people reveal the deep-seated nature of this issue and the wide-ranging effects it has on both individuals and communities. This article aims to delve into the underlying reasons behind the surge in youth involvement in drug abuse, shedding light on the complex factors that contribute to this troubling trend.
Consider the story of a parent who was taken by surprise when they discovered that their daughter had gotten involved with dangerous substances. Introduced to these substances by a friend during her JAMB lessons, the signs were subtle until an unexpected collapse led to an urgent hospital visit. The financial strain caused by this unforeseen medical emergency was only exacerbated by the subsequent need to enroll the daughter in a rehabilitation center. This tale serves as a stark reminder of the ease with which young individuals can find themselves ensnared in substances that pose serious threats to their overall well-being.
Another distressing incident involves a 22-year-old university student, in his final year, who spiraled into alarming behavior, barricading himself in his room and wielding a weapon against his own parents. The investigation that followed revealed that he had fallen prey to the allure of a substance ominously named Ice, known for its potent and dangerous effects. This jarring event underscores the perils associated with drug abuse, as it can lead to erratic behavior that endangers not only the individual but also those in their immediate surroundings.
However, perhaps the most unsettling narrative arises from a deeply religious background, wherein two young men, raised under the tenets of faith, veered down the treacherous path of drug-induced turmoil. Despite their upbringing, they succumbed to drug abuse, becoming sources of chaos and distress within their community. The failure of psychiatric care and rehabilitation efforts highlights the pressing need for comprehensive interventions that can break the cycle of addiction and stem its destructive consequences.
It is important to acknowledge that drug abuse among youths is not confined to specific demographics; young people from diverse backgrounds are grappling with this issue. The prevalence of this problem is substantiated by data gathered on youth drug abuse in Nigeria. Recent surveys conducted indicates that Nigerian youths between the ages of 16 and 30 have either experimented with or become regular users of illicit substances. This data dispels any notion that this is an isolated occurrence, highlighting the broad reach of this issue across various segments of society.
As the heart of this issue lies within our families and communities, the responsibility falls on parents and guardians to exercise increased vigilance. By closely monitoring their children’s activities, living spaces, and behaviors, they can play a pivotal role in safeguarding against drug abuse. Engaging in open and honest conversations with young people about the risks of substance abuse is crucial in equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.
In conclusion, the personal accounts shared in this article serve as a wake-up call, shining a light on a grim reality that must not be ignored. The reasons behind the growing involvement of youth in drug abuse are multi-faceted, often stemming from societal pressures, personal struggles, and negative influences. As a society, it is incumbent upon us to address this issue collectively. By promoting awareness, facilitating open dialogues, and providing accessible support and resources, we can collaboratively foster a safer and healthier environment for our youth. Through these efforts, we empower them to reject the path of addiction and pave the way towards a brighter future.
A few days ago, there was a story Online on how many rich families and pastors kids are lamenting about the effect of these drugs. I think The Government needs to Declare a State of Emergency on Drug abuse.” the writer began. “Last year, I discovered my daughter had been introduced to a dangerous substance by a rich handsome kid she met while undergoing JAMB Lessons and as hard and meticulous as I thought I was, I never suspected, until she fainted and was rushed to the hospital where after tests she was discovered to have abused a Hard Drug, making me spend an unexpected #50,000 that night. I immediately put her in a rehabilitation center operated by soldiers and legions, an organization in which I am an affiliate. I’ve spent over #100,000 on the matter.
Two days after checking her into the rehabilitation centre, my childhood friend who is a Senior Pastor at one of the popular churches called me around 3am, it was a distress call. His son who is a final year student in a Lagos University, had locked himself up in the master Bedroom where he chased his parents from, brandishing a machete, that it is the room he liked. That wasn’t a problem for the scared parents. His own room is all ensuite too but the demon in him wanted to deal with his parents.
When I got there, having known him from birth, I knocked on his door but he refused to open. We had to turn round and the dad broke the expensive window to his room for us to be sure he was still alive.
I put a call through to my good friend that day and he advised we immediately take him to a Psychiatric Hospital after a lengthy lecture.
I had to call my boys who came and broke the door to the room and apprehended him. He was using a substance called Ice , which is much more lethal. He is also undergoing rehabilitation now.
My younger brother a lawyer in Lekki called me about 5 days ago if I could help to apprehend two sons of a Church pastor, a 70 year old woman whose husband is still in the mortuary. Her two sons ages 28 and 30 had become menace to the entire area, terrorizing people after abusing Drugs. They had taken them to Psychiatric Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers in Lagos but they were all filled to the brain with Drugs, and the old woman gave up on them; So they became terrors. I had to mobilize my boys to apprehend them forcefully and they are also currently undergoing Rehabilitation.
Another 22 years old was apprehended by my boys, after he almost severed his mother’s head with a Machetes, he said the mum was a demon with 2 Heads and he needed to take one off. The Mother escaped death by whiskers.
Why am I taking time to say all these is the fact that most of the affected children all came from deep religious homes that you wonder how did they turned out like that , and to also enlighten us about the current trend. Drug abuse has become a Pandemic. When we took my friend’s son to the hospital, majority of the patients were between 16 and 30 years old in staggering numbers mostly from well to do Parents.
I want to implore you this day to please be Extra Vigilant, looking in,at the children’s rooms and lockers in their absence and constantly remind your kids of this trend and the dangers inherent in drug abuse and usage. Above all, constant prayers and admonition are key. It is only God that can keep them safe from those dangers.
Good evening, Mummies & Daddies.”
