By Our Correspondent
January 10, 2026
Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, is witnessing a troubling rise in the indiscriminate smoking of Indian hemp in public places, with residents raising concerns over what appears to be weak enforcement by relevant authorities.
Investigations by NEWSPOINTER revealed that individuals, mostly youths, openly smoke the illicit substance in several parts of the city without fear of arrest or prosecution, despite existing laws prohibiting drug abuse.
Areas identified as major hotspots include Enjoyment Liquor Culture, popularly known as brukutu, in Mayo Gwoi; Bakula Joint in Abuja Phase One; Dorowa axis; and Mama Hawa drinking joint in Magami, among other locations within the metropolis.
These spots, which are popular relaxation and drinking centres, have become gathering points for drug users, prompting worries among residents who question the absence of sustained law enforcement presence in such areas.
A resident of Mayo Gwoi, who spoke to NEWSPOINTER on condition of anonymity, said the unchecked consumption of illicit drugs has contributed significantly to rising crime and social disorder in Jalingo.
According to the source, many criminal activities in the state capital are linked to drug influence, particularly among unemployed youths who freely engage in substance abuse without deterrence.
The resident urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Taraba State to intensify patrols, surveillance and enforcement operations around identified hotspots to curb the growing menace.
Efforts to obtain the reaction of the NDLEA Taraba State Command were unsuccessful, as officials of the agency could not be reached as at press time.
