Residents of Dutse in Jigawa State have urged authorities to impose a total ban on betting, citing increasing financial losses, youth involvement in crime, and growing social challenges associated with gambling.
Speaking in separate interviews on Sunday, the residents expressed concern over the rising number of betting centres across the state and called for decisive government action.
One resident, Ibrahim Musa, attributed the spread of betting to ignorance and the desperation among youths to make quick money, revealing that he had personally lost about N3 million to gambling. He noted that the trend has fueled criminal activities among young people, with some ending up in prison due to offences linked to betting losses.
“I appeal to the state government and the Dutse Emirate Council to shut down betting shops to protect youths from engaging in theft and other crimes,” he said.
Another resident, Ibrahim Mohammed, warned that betting is ruining lives and pushing many into financial hardship, disclosing that he had lost over N5 million. He said he was once financially stable and had supported about 30 youths with startup capital before suffering heavy losses through gambling.
“It is painful that I am broke today because of betting losses,” he lamented.
Also speaking, Ali Sabo said he had been involved in betting for more than a decade and had lost over N5 million, blaming weak regulation for the proliferation of gambling activities. He added that some of his associates have developed mental health issues due to prolonged losses and stress.
Similarly, Sabo Haladu from Gujungu town in Taura Local Government Area said betting has become widespread among unemployed youths seeking quick income. He said his own efforts to improve his financial situation through gambling only resulted in repeated losses, and he called for a complete ban on betting activities in the state.