Some punters in Dutse, Jigawa State, have called on authorities to impose a total ban on betting activities, saying it would help reduce financial losses, curb youth indulgence, and promote discipline.

The residents made the call during separate interviews on Sunday, expressing concern over what they described as the rapid spread of betting centres in the area.

One of the punters, Ibrahim Musa, blamed the growing popularity of betting on ignorance and the pursuit of quick money. He said he had lost about N3 million to betting and argued that the practice was contributing to rising criminal behaviour among youths.

Musa also claimed that several individuals were already serving jail terms due to offences linked to betting-related debts and financial desperation, urging the government and traditional institutions to take decisive action.

“I appeal to the state government and the Dutse Emirate Council to ban betting shops to protect the youths from stealing and other crimes,” he said.

Another resident, Ibrahim Mohammed, described betting as a “destructive habit” with severe social and economic consequences. He said he had lost over N5 million over the years, which pushed him into financial hardship.

According to him, the losses disrupted his earlier stability, including his ability to support others financially.

Similarly, Ali Sabo said he had engaged in betting for over 10 years and lost more than N5 million during that period, adding that weak regulation had worsened the situation.

He also claimed that some of his associates had developed mental health challenges linked to betting-related stress and losses.

A resident of Gujungu town in Taura Local Government Area, Sabo Haladu, said betting had become common among idle youths in the area. He said he initially saw it as a way to improve his finances but ended up suffering repeated losses.

Haladu also joined calls for a total ban on betting in Jigawa State, saying it would help address rising social and economic challenges among young people.