We are trapped, politicians using us – Story of Kano drug addicts
Aminu Adamu, popularly known as Tanga, is a 20-year-old man from Kano Municipal Local Government Area. At an age when most of his peers are in universities and colleges pursuing education, he has abandoned school for a life of drug abuse.
Every morning, instead of heading to class or work, Aminu walks to a hidden den under a tree by a stream — a notorious spot where young men gather to abuse drugs, steal phones, and commit petty crimes.
Speaking to SOCIETY WATCH, Aminu narrated how the death of both parents forced him into this lifestyle.
When my parents were alive, I lacked nothing. They supported my education. But I lost them both within two years. I was the eldest with six siblings, yet I was too young to take responsibility. Relatives gave no support, and my friends lured me into drugs,” he said with regrets.
Drugs, Politics and Exploitation
At the same hideout, SOCIETY WATCH met Sulaiman Rabiu, 38, another addict who once worked as a truck driver. He said drug use cost him his job after his employer seized his truck.
He revealed how politicians exploit youths like him during elections.
“We smoke cannabis, tramadol, diazepam, codeine — anything we can get. Politicians use us during campaigns to cause trouble and violence. Recently, in Bagwai/Shanono during a by-election, we almost lost our lives. Yet the same politicians have abandoned us,” he lamented.
Another addict, who introduced himself as Mada, was different from the rest — he is a skilled Carpenter but says lack of resources and equipment pushed him into the den.
