AN ASSESSMENT OF CULTURE OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE AMONG IMAN IBOM YOUTHS

This fieldwork was undertaken to assess the culture of alcohol and drug abuse among Iman Ibom youths in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The researcher used Bandura’s Social Learning Theory and Hirschi’s Social Bonding Theory as the theoretical framework. An exploratory research design was adopted. The sample for this study consisted of individuals aged between 18 and 50 years and above, who were randomly selected via the big-net approach from selected villages across the Iman Ibom Clan in Etinan Local Government Area. The researcher employed Fatterman’s big-net approach for determining the sample size, which was limited to no more than 400 interviewees. Socio-demographic data were presented and analysed using simple percentages. The findings were presented as naturally occurring texts in the form of excerpts and analysed thematically using discuss analysis methods. The study revealed that Iman Ibom youths engage in anti-social and anti-moral behaviours under the influence of alcohol and drug abuse. They continue this cycle of alcohol and substance abuse, often engaging in criminal behaviour while under the influence. Mkpomkparawa has been a cycle of alcohol and drug abuse among Iman Ibom youths, functioning as a traditional code and pattern through which such abuse is preserved and passed from one generation to another. Among other recommendations, the researcher suggests legislation, advocacy, and sensitisation programmes targeting youths, stakeholders, and the public about the dangers of alcohol and psychoactive substance abuse, especially considering its health impacts on young people.