Osogbo Residents Urge Action on Mental Health Crisis.
Residents of Osogbo have raised concerns over the increasing number of mentally ill persons on the town’s streets, urging the government to take urgent steps towards rehabilitation and reintegration.
Many residents, speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), described the situation as worrisome, particularly along major roads. They called on the state government to evacuate affected individuals and provide them with appropriate care.
Mr Biola Awosun, a resident, attributed the rising cases of mental illness to drug abuse and involvement in harmful activities. He emphasised the need for swift government intervention to ensure the safety of both residents and those suffering from mental health issues.
Similarly, Mrs Adenike Faponda, a trader at Ejigbo Motor Park, suggested that some of the mentally ill persons might have been brought in from other states. She urged the government to place them in psychiatric facilities where they could receive proper medical attention.
Dr Andrew Dosunmu, a psychologist and founder of Psychcare Foundation, linked the crisis to substance abuse, particularly among young people. He explained that many psychotropic substances had infiltrated society, leading to an alarming increase in mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, and developmental disorders.
“The most persistent issue, especially in Osun, is drug-induced mental illness among young people. The rise in synthetic and non-synthetic hard drugs is alarming, particularly among those aged 16 to 45,” Dosunmu said.
He further highlighted the role of family instability in contributing to drug addiction. According to him, children from broken or dysfunctional homes often struggle with emotional distress, making them vulnerable to drug abuse and subsequent mental health challenges.
“The responsibility of raising children properly is a collective effort. The government alone cannot solve this issue; parents, schools, and society must work together to secure a better future for our youth,” he added.
Ms Dunmilola Akinola, a nurse at Asubiaro Hospital, acknowledged the government’s efforts in addressing the issue but called for intensified efforts by task force officers to evacuate and rehabilitate those affected.
Meanwhile, Mr Richard Oyegbami, Permanent Secretary at the Osun Ministry of Environment, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis. He stated that the Ministries of Environment and Sanitation, as well as Youth, Sports, and Special Needs, were collaborating to ensure that mentally ill persons received the necessary care and rehabilitation.
“The government is not just watching. There is a designated facility where mentally unstable persons are taken for rehabilitation,” Oyegbami assured.
Residents remain hopeful that these efforts will be intensified to create a safer and healthier environment for all.
