EFFECT OF DRUG ABUSE AND POLITICAL THUGGERY AMONG NIGERIAN YOUTH: A STUDY OF SOME SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examines the nexus between drug abuse and political thuggery among youths in some selected LGAs in Kano State, Nigeria. Kano as one of the most populous states with a pronounced youth bulge, over 65% of the population is under 30years and persistently high youth unemployment, demographic pressure and economic exclusion intersect with political violence. The study is anchored on strain theory. It examines how frustration arising from unmet expectations of education, unemployment and political inclusion predisposes Kano youths to substance abuse and subsequent recruitment as political thugs. The study utilizes survey data from 400 youths, age from 15-35 years from Nasarawa, Fagge, and Ungogo LGAs of Kano State. Findings reveal that tramadol, codeine-based cough syrups and cannabis are the most abused substances, often used to reduce fear, boost aggression and sustain energy during electoral conflicts. In conclusion the government should enact stronger laws against thuggery, and politicians to distance themselves from such groups.The study therefore recommends targeted interventions in the Local Government Areas, skills and entrepreneurship progrmms to close the capability expectation gap.