Some betting participants in Dutse, Jigawa State, have urged authorities to completely prohibit betting activities, saying such a move would reduce financial losses, limit youth indulgence, and encourage discipline across communities.
The residents made the appeal in separate interviews on Sunday, expressing worry over what they described as the fast-growing number of betting centres in the area and its influence on young people.
One of the respondents, Ibrahim Musa, attributed the rising popularity of betting to ignorance and the desire for quick financial gain. He disclosed that he had lost about N3 million to betting and argued that the practice was fueling increasing criminal behaviour among youths.
He further claimed that several individuals were already serving jail sentences due to offences connected to betting-related debts and financial desperation, calling on both government and traditional institutions to intervene decisively.
“I appeal to the state government and the Dutse Emirate Council to ban betting shops to protect the youths from stealing and other crimes,” he said.
Jigawa Residents Decry Social Impact of Betting
Another resident, Ibrahim Mohammed, described betting as a “destructive habit” with serious social and economic consequences. He stated that he had lost over N5 million over time, which eventually pushed him into financial hardship and disrupted his ability to support others.
Similarly, Ali Sabo, who said he had been involved in betting for more than 10 years, revealed that he had lost over N5 million during the period, adding that weak regulation had worsened the situation.
He also noted that some of his associates had developed mental health challenges linked to stress and losses from betting activities.
In a related account, Sabo Haladu from Gujungu town in Taura Local Government Area said betting had become widespread among idle youths in the area. He explained that what started as a perceived financial opportunity later resulted in repeated losses.
Haladu also joined others in calling for a total ban on betting in Jigawa State, stating that it would help address growing social and economic challenges facing young people.
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