By Capital Watch Media
The rising cost of illicit drugs in Kano State has led to a decline in consumption, as users struggle to afford the substances, an investigation has revealed.
A long-time drug user in Filin-Idi, a known drug hotspot, disclosed that price increases have made drugs inaccessible to many addicts.
“Some drugs now cost ₦13,000, ₦10,000, or ₦5,000. Only the children of the wealthy and corrupt government officials can afford them,” he said.
The user identified Masallacin Idi as the most notorious drug-selling location in Kano.
“Whatever you need—pills, marijuana, or sholisho—you can get it there. Other major locations include Dan’agundi, Kofar Mata, Kofar Na’isa, and Kofar Nassarawa,” he added.
Several individuals involved in the drug trade confirmed that the high cost has significantly reduced the number of users.
They attributed the decline to economic hardship, which has made drug abuse less affordable.
Kano State has historically recorded high levels of drug abuse, ranking among the states with the highest number of users in Nigeria.
In response, the state government established a special committee in July 2024 to tackle drug abuse and phone snatching.
The committee, led by Brigadier General Gambo Mai’Adua (retd.), was tasked with addressing the crisis.
“Reports indicate that one in every six people in Kano uses illicit drugs. This is a disturbing statistic that requires urgent action,” he stated.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Kano has also intensified efforts to curb drug abuse.
NDLEA Commander Abubakar Idris Ahmad disclosed that officers had raided drug dens in Dan’agundi and Masallacin Idi.
He advised the government to develop abandoned lands to prevent them from becoming hideouts for criminals.
“The government must urgently decide what to do with the Masallacin Idi land,” he said.
However, some analysts have accused the NDLEA of being lenient on drug dealers.
Allegations have surfaced that certain officers tip off drug peddlers about upcoming raids, though the agency has repeatedly denied these claims.
The demolition of illegal structures in Masallacin Idi by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration has reportedly contributed to the area becoming a major drug hub, as the site remains abandoned and serves as a marketplace for illicit substances.
