The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disclosed that youths in Borno State are resorting to drinking fermented human urine, preserved for over 10 days, as an alternative to hard drugs. Iliyasu Mani, the Commander of Narcotics of the NDLEA in Borno State, revealed this concerning trend, stating that the abuse of psychoactive substances is widespread among the youth.
Mani noted that aside from fermented human urine, youths are also consuming unusual substances such as lizard dung, camel urine, Lipton soaked in gin, mentholated spirits mixed with soft drinks, and even inhaling toilet fumes and gutter dirt in their pursuit of intoxication.
He emphasized that the NDLEA Command in Borno State has been actively combating drug abuse but acknowledged the increasing challenges, especially with the involvement of young teens, including women, in the abuse of new psychoactive substances. Despite these challenges, Mani expressed hope and mentioned that the NDLEA has strengthened its prevention strategy by establishing a remodeled counseling/rehab center within the command’s premises. Additionally, drop-in centers have been set up in tertiary institutions as drug abuse research centers.
During his tenure, Mani reported that the NDLEA Command has seized 4.5 tonnes of illicit substances, leading to the arrest of 863 suspects. Of those arrested, 53 have been convicted, while 736 are undergoing counseling.
