Jigawa residents call for total ban on betting

Some residents of Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State, have called for a complete ban on betting, citing financial losses and the need to promote discipline among young people.

The residents also expressed concern over the rising number of betting centres in the area and urged authorities to take proactive steps to address the trend.

In separate interviews, a resident named Ibrahim Musa said the spread of betting was driven by ignorance and the desire for quick money. He stated that he lost about N3 million to betting and noted that the practice had contributed to criminal behaviour among youths. According to him, many people are currently serving jail terms for betting-related financial crimes. He appealed to the state government and the emirate council to shut down betting shops.

Another resident, Ibrahim Mohammed, advised youths and women to be wary of betting because of its negative social and economic effects. He described it as a destructive habit that leads to financial ruin and crime. He recounted losing over N5 million over the years, which left him in financial crisis. He added that he previously enjoyed financial stability and supported about 30 young people with start-up capital.

Ali Sabo, who said he had been betting for more than ten years, admitted to squandering over N5 million. He blamed the lack of an effective regulatory framework for encouraging the growth of betting and exposing participants to financial hardship. He also said five of his associates had developed mental health issues due to betting-related stress and losses.

A farm labourer from Gujungu town in Taura Local Government Area, Sabo Haladu, said betting was popular among idle youths in his area. He said he took up betting hoping to improve his finances but suffered repeated losses. He also called for a total ban on betting in the state.