By Adedotun Ajayi

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In the quiet town of Pegi, Kuje Abuja, tragedy struck some years back when Adegbite, burdened by a staggering loss of N150,000 in sports betting committed suicide. His losses had begun to accumulate, spiraling into a substantial debt. Despite efforts to recoup his losses, luck remained elusive, leaving him burdened with insurmountable financial obligations, thereby taking his own life.

This was not an isolated incident. Across Nigeria, tales of despair and anguish intertwine with the escalating gambling-related tragedies, each evidence of the harrowing repercussions of unchecked addiction.

From the promising student Samuel Adegoke of Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro,  who is also the heir apparent to the throne of a town in Osun State, these individuals, driven by the allure of quick winnings, found themselves ensnared in a cycle of devastating losses. Young lives are cut short, futures shattered by the relentless pursuit of elusive fortunes.

Daniel Ayuba’s final Twitter posts painted a haunting narrative. Distressed by the loss of N1.5 million from his bet account, his desperate attempts to reclaim what was lost culminated in an irreversible decision. Despair echoed in the recent tragedy of an Abia state-based businessman Onoh Chukwuma Richard, who last week succumbed to the weight of an N2.5 million loss, ending his life on the day he had eagerly shared his aspirations on Facebook.

These heart-wrenching accounts underscored a deeper issue plaguing the Nigerian society. The seductive allure of easy winnings and the harsh realities of financial ruin, plunging individuals into despair, stripping them of hope, and ultimately claiming lives.

While these incidents unfold against the backdrop of personal tragedies, they illuminate a pervasive societal concern. The surge in online betting platforms, promising lucrative rewards, often conceals the darker underbelly of addiction and despair.

The ramifications are far-reaching, extending beyond the immediate loss of life to families shattered by grief, communities left grappling with the aftermath, and the urgent need for proactive measures to address the looming crisis.

Experts stress the necessity of holistic intervention, advocating for stringent regulations, robust support systems for addiction recovery, and comprehensive awareness campaigns to curb the rising tide of gambling-related tragedies.

As the nation grapples with these heartrending losses, it becomes imperative to reframe the conversation around gambling. It’s a call not just for regulation but for compassion, understanding, and proactive steps to protect vulnerable individuals from the perils of  addiction.

Speaking with The Hope, Bukun Phil, a psychologist said gambling addiction is a growing concern that demands immediate attention.

According to him; “as a psychologist, I view this trend with deep concern and urgency. The rise of gambling-related suicides in Nigeria is a distressing consequence of the unchecked expansion of this industry.

“Gambling addiction transcends mere financial loss; it poses a severe threat to individuals’ mental health and societal well-being. The cases of suicide resulting from gambling losses are tragic manifestations of the profound psychological impact this issue has on vulnerable individuals. The allure of quick gains often masks the devastating consequences that ensue, leading individuals into a downward spiral of despair and hopelessness”

“The normalization and accessibility of gambling platforms exacerbate the situation, especially among the youth, who are particularly susceptible to these influences. It’s imperative to recognize that gambling addiction is a complex psychological issue that requires various interventions encompassing mental health support, public awareness campaigns, and regulatory measures to curtail the proliferation of gambling establishments”

“Moreover, the correlation between gambling and mental health must not be underestimated. It’s crucial to provide adequate mental health resources and counseling services for those grappling with gambling addiction. Prevention strategies, education, and early intervention programmes are pivotal in safeguarding individuals from falling victim to the destructive grip of compulsive gambling”

Furthermore, he said “Recognizing the signs of gambling addiction is crucial in initiating timely intervention. Individuals often exhibit telltale behavioral patterns when grappling with gambling addiction. Heightened preoccupation with gambling, an incessant need to wager increasing amounts of money to experience the same thrill, and persistent unsuccessful attempts to stop or cut back on gambling are key indicators. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms like irritability or restlessness when attempting to cease gambling activities, neglecting personal or professional responsibilities due to gambling, and resorting to deceit or borrowing money to sustain the habit are alarming signs. Acknowledging these behavioral changes and seeking help when these red flags emerge is vital in curbing the detrimental effects of gambling addiction”

“To address this burgeoning crisis, concerted efforts from government bodies, regulatory agencies, mental health professionals, and community stakeholders are essential. Establishing stricter regulations on gambling activities, coupled with comprehensive mental health support systems, can help mitigate the adverse effects and prevent further tragedies”

“In combating this ‘pandemic’ of gambling-related issues, it’s imperative to emphasize education, raise awareness about the dangers of excessive gambling, and provide accessible avenues for mental health assistance. Together, as a society, we must prioritize the well-being of our citizens by addressing the underlying psychological challenges intertwined with the proliferation of gambling in Nigeria” he concluded

Also said speaking is Olumide Akinjonez, a professional, “sharp” is a common name for gamblers in the gambling circles, according to him, he said the notion that gambling-related suicides are solely attributed to financial losses is a misguided perspective.

“As a gaming professional, I’ve witnessed the volatile nature of this industry firsthand. It’s crucial to understand that gambling, by its very nature, encompasses both wins and losses. Every wager carries an inherent risk, and individuals entering this realm comprehend this uncertainty”

“Suicides stemming from gambling losses aren’t merely about financial setbacks; they’re several other factors and often involve underlying mental health challenges exacerbated by impulsive behavior and high-stakes emotions. It’s a misconception to presume that the act of gambling alone leads to  tragic outcomes”

“In the world of betting, success, and failure fluctuate, creating a dynamic where individuals experience both exhilaration and disappointment. While losses can be distressing, attributing suicides solely to financial outcomes oversimplifies the complexity of the issue. We must explore deeper into the psychological factors and mental health struggles twine together with these incidents”

He concluded and said “As a gaming professional, I advocate for a holistic approach that addresses mental health support, responsible gaming initiatives, and education to empower individuals to navigate the unpredictability of gambling without succumbing to overwhelming despair. Understanding that gambling outcomes are not always definitive and fostering a supportive environment for mental well-being are integral steps towards preventing these tragic incidents”