DRUG ABUSE AND CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR IN NIGERIA TERTIARY INSTITUTION

Résumé

This study examines drug abuse and criminal behavior among undergraduate students of Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, Edo State. Factors such as peer group influence, curiosity and desire tension, for relaxation etc. are found to be some of the factors that influences student to use and abuse drugs. The quantitative method of survey research design and random sampling techniques were used to select 376 study participants. Data obtained were analyzed and presented on frequency tables. Findings from the study reveals among others that; the types and effect of this unhealthy practice on the students as well as the implication of their action, highlighted the need for the government, parents, teachers, counselor and other members of the society to actively get involved in the fight against drug abuse, not only by condemning it but also by living an exemplary life style. Substances such as codeine, cigarettes, alcohol, India hemp and other drugs that are dangerous to the health of the student should not be sold in and around schools, that is the school environment should be a drug free zone because the resultant effects of drug abuse includes cultism, robbery, prostitution, poor academic performance and thuggery in the society. The study among others recommends that; the management of Ambrose Alli University should formulate policies to prevent drug abuse and should also hold seminars for parents and families to alert them early to the symptoms of drug abuse in their children. Pamphlets and badges should be distributed to all faculties and departments on the impact of drug abuse and at the primary prevention level; there is need for proper education of parent on adolescent behaviour. The adolescent themselves should also be educated early enough about the dangers of addiction and Parents on their own side should try to watch their children very closely. By so doing, they can easily detect early warning changes in their character.