The future of any society lies in the hands of its youth, but what happens when these young minds are plagued with social vices that threaten their well-being and that of the society at large?
In Ogun State, the prevalence of minors getting pregnant, engaging in drug abuse, and resorting to abortion has become a worrisome trend.
This trend has not only affected their health and future prospects but also poses a threat to the development of the state.
In this report, Sodiq Adelakun delves into the alarming phenomenon of underage pregnancy, abortion, and drug abuse, particularly among young people.
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Bukola (not her real name), from Ifo, Ogun State, revealed during an informal discussion with FTN that she had undergone two abortions for random men when she was only 12 years old.
When asked about the reasons behind her actions, she explained that it all began when she attended a carnival organized in a neighboring street. It was there that she met the first man who took her virginity, after she had become intoxicated from consuming a small amount of alcohol.
When questioned about her parents’ reaction, she stated that she did not inform them. After experiencing symptoms of vomiting, the man provided her with pills whose name she was unaware of.
There has been a report of a man, approximately 60 years old, who has been identified as a pedophile. He has been accused of having sexual relations not only with his daughters but also with a minor in her parents’ house while they were away.
He was caught and apprehended by the Ifo Police Command.
Meanwhile, Titilayo, who is 14 years old, revealed how she became a mother of four children. She explained that it all started when she was in JSS1 and would go to her boyfriend’s house with her friends after school.
She became addicted and had sexual relations with not just one but five random guys. She became pregnant, and although her father has passed away, her mother does not pay much attention to her and allows her to go out whenever she wants. This is why she does not have anyone to guide her.
Recall in 2020, Society for Family Health (SFH) through the Adolescents 360 (A360) Project yesterday decried the high rate of teenage pregnancy in Ogun State. It disclosed that the state recorded 92,400 teenage pregnancies between 2016 and 2020.
The Adolescent 360 is a fouryear project, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Children Investment Foundation Fund.
The Rise of Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youth
In the same vein, drug abuse has become a prevalent social vice among Nigerian youths, particularly those in secondary and tertiary institutions.
This alarming trend can be attributed, in part, to the negligence of parents and the allure of drugs. Field research conducted by FTN in various communities in Ogun State, such as Sango, Ijoko, Ifo, Abeokuta, Ilaro, and Ijebu-Ode, has shed light on the extent of this issue.
Young people in these areas have been observed engaging in drug abuse, considering it a sign of maturity and a means to connect with a higher power.
Among the drugs commonly used by these youths are Colorado, meth, and a concoction known as “gutter juice.” These substances have become the go-to drugs for many young individuals seeking to enhance their performance or escape reality.
For instance, in Sango, a group of young men was seen smoking weed, referred to as “Loud” or “SK,” late in the evening. When approached by an FTN reporter, one of the boys requested money and openly discussed their intention to purchase Colos, a popular drug in the area. He explained that without it, many of them struggle to eat, as it stimulates their appetite.
The issue of drug abuse is not limited to one particular community. In Ilaro, Abeokuta, and Ijebu-Ode, numerous students were observed smoking drugs and loudly proclaiming that it would make them feel invincible.
This behavior is concerning, as it not only affects their academic performance but also poses a threat to their overall well-being.
One significant factor contributing to the rise of drug abuse among Nigerian youths is the negligence of parents. Many young individuals lack proper guidance and supervision, leaving them vulnerable to the influence of peers and the allure of drugs.
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Parents must take responsibility for their children’s upbringing and actively educate them about the dangers of substance abuse.
The prevalence of drug abuse among Nigerian youths demands urgent attention from both the government and society as a whole. It is crucial to implement comprehensive drug prevention programs in schools and communities, focusing on education, counseling, and rehabilitation.
Additionally, parents must be encouraged to actively engage with their children, providing a supportive and nurturing environment that discourages drug abuse.
The rise of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, particularly those in secondary and tertiary institutions, is a pressing issue that cannot be ignored. The allure of drugs, coupled with negligent parenting, has led many young individuals down a dangerous path. It is imperative for stakeholders to come together and address this problem through education, counseling, and rehabilitation programs. By doing so, we can protect the future of our youth and create a society free from the grip of drug abuse.
It is imperative that the government, parents, and other stakeholders take proactive measures to address these social vices among the youth in Ogun State. This can be achieved through the provision of quality education, access to healthcare services, and the creation of safe spaces for young people to express themselves and engage in positive activities. By investing in the well-being of the youth, we can secure a brighter future for Ogun State and ensure that our young people become responsible and productive members of society.
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