Amid growing concerns over drug abuse and cybercrime among young people in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State, Kogi-born musician, Sampson Ojonugwa, popularly known as BlackSaints, has taken his campaign for a drug-free society to the streets of Ajegunle.
Speaking during the awareness drive, BlackSaints said he was deeply disturbed by the rising number of youths wasting their lives on hard substances.
“It pains me to see vibrant, talented young people destroying their future with mind-bending substances,” he lamented.
Residents who witnessed the campaign attested to the alarming rate of drug abuse in the community. A trader at Boundary Market, Mr. Ukadike Nelson, described the situation as heartbreaking.
“It is painful to see young boys turning themselves into shadows of their potential because of drugs. Many of them sleep unconsciously on the roadside after taking these substances,” he said.
Another resident, Mrs. Foluke, a fruit seller, shared her personal ordeal, revealing that her 18-year-old son has been trapped by drug addiction despite her efforts to help him. She commended the campaign and appealed for assistance for families facing similar challenges.
Commonly abused substances in the area include kolos and a locally brewed mixture known as ‘Omi Gutter’. Residents noted that these drugs often lead to erratic behavior, sleepwalking, and loss of consciousness in users.
BlackSaints expressed joy that his campaign resonated with the community, disclosing that over 200 parents reached out to him for support and guidance on rehabilitation options for their children.
“I feel fulfilled today that my dream of campaigning against drug abuse in Lagos communities has started taking shape. I am grateful to my team, DJ Spice and Naughty Awaku, for standing by me. We will continue to take this campaign to more neighborhoods across Lagos,” he said.
He also appreciated the support of the Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Olamilekan Olu Akindipe (a.k.a. Lampholder), and Hon. Sabur Akanbi Oluwa of the Lagos State House of Assembly for their encouragement in making the campaign a reality.
BlackSaints pledged to sustain the advocacy until a significant reduction is achieved in drug use and cybercrime among Lagos youths.
