By Musa Peace Affos


In this report, Musa Peace Affos a reporter with NewDay Newspaper writes about the negative impact of Crystal Meth popularly known as "Ice" amongst Taraba Youths, particularly in Jalingo the State Capital.

“Crystal meth” is a street name for the drug methamphetamine, a powerful stimulant that carries a high risk of physical dependence. Although methamphetamine has medical purposes, people use forms of it as a recreational drug.

This report emanates from interviews, interactions and investigations carried out by our reporter.

The alarming abuse of crystal methamphetamine, popularly known as "ice," among youths in Taraba State has reached a critical level, posing a significant threat to the moral fabric, health, and future of the state. Despite its ban in Nigeria, the consumption of this highly addictive and dangerous drug continues to rise, particularly among students of higher institutions and residents of specific areas in the state.  


Crystal meth abuse has taken root in institutions such as Taraba State University (Jalingo), Federal University Wukari, and colleges of Agriculture and Education across the state. Our investigations reveal that two out of every ten youths in these schools have experimented with or are addicted to the drug. 

According to Jane (surname withheld), a 200-level student at Taraba State University, "It started as a way to keep awake during exams, but now I can’t do without it. It’s like my body craves it."  

In Wukari, a young man known as Danjuma admitted to using the drug for the euphoria it provides, saying, "It makes me feel unstoppable, but deep down, I know it's ruining me."  

The abuse of ice is not limited to campuses but extends to urban areas and some of the identified I've Hotspots in Jalingo include ATC, Doruwa, Road Block, Magami, Abuja Phase One and Two, Jalingo Market, Mile 6, Anguwan Sarki, and Tudun Wada and many others. These locations have become hubs for drug sales and consumption.  

Ahmed, a self-identified "Yahoo boy" in Magami, shared his experience: "Ice sharpens my focus when I'm online. I make more money, but it’s also draining me financially." In Tudun Wada, Aisha, a 23-year-old lady, disclosed, "I was introduced to ice at a party. Now, I can’t seem to quit, and my health is suffering."  

Moral, Financial, and Health Implications
  
The widespread abuse of crystal meth in Taraba State has far-reaching consequences such as Moral Decay, Financial Burden, Health Risks, Crime.

The drug has been linked to rising cases of criminal activities, including cyber fraud, theft, and violent behavior.  Also, addicts spend exorbitant amounts to maintain their habit, with prices ranging from ₦8,000 to ₦15,000 per gram. Many have resorted to desperate measures to fund their addiction.  

Medically, Crystal meth wreaks havoc on the brain and body, leading to paranoia, hallucinations, severe weight loss, and heart complications. Some addicts have succumbed to overdose, while others battle irreversible health conditions.  

A multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and the establishment of rehabilitation centers is essential to curb this menace.  

Community leaders, parents, and schools also have a role to play in addressing this issue. Sensitization programs should target vulnerable groups, while stricter monitoring of drug supply channels must be enforced.  

The rising abuse of crystal meth among Taraba youths is a ticking time bomb. If left unchecked, it will devastate the state’s future generation. As stakeholders in Taraba’s progress, we must act collectively to rescue our youths from the grip of addiction and build a society free of substance abuse.