Residents of Dutse in Jigawa State, Nigeria, have called for a complete ban on Gambling activities, citing rising financial losses, increased youth involvement in crime, and worsening social problems linked to gambling. In separate interviews, residents said the growing number of betting centers across the state was a major concern. They urged the state government and the Dutse Emirate Council to take decisive action to curb gambling.

Ibrahim Musa blamed the spread of betting on ignorance and the desperation among youths for quick money. He said he personally lost about N3 million to gambling and added that the practice had contributed to rising criminal behavior among young people, with some ending up in prison over offences related to losses from betting.

“I appeal to the state government and the Dutse Emirate Council to ban betting shops to protect youths from stealing and other crimes,” he said. Ibrahim Mohammed also warned that betting was destroying lives and pushing many into serious financial hardship. He disclosed that he had lost more than N5 million over time, adding that he used to be financially stable and had even supported about 30 youths with start-up capital before his losses to gambling.

“It is painful that I am broke today because of betting losses,” he lamented. Ali Sabo said he had been involved in betting for more than a decade and had lost more than N5 million as well. He attributed the problem to weak regulation and said some people he knew had developed mental health challenges due to prolonged losses and stress.

Similarly, Sabo Haladu of Gujungu town in Taura Local Government Area said betting has become common among unemployed youths searching for quick income. He said his own attempt to improve his finances through gambling resulted in repeated losses and urged a complete ban on gambling activities in the state.