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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction 

 

 

 

 

And 

Ayanabia Aaron PhD 

Department of Sociology 

University of Port Harcourt 

Abstract  

The challenge is illicit drugs use and addiction can not be over emphasised in our society 

today, based on this study Drug addiction was found to be prevalent among road transport 

workers. This is in agreement with the respondents’ responses from the in depth interview 

conducted by the researcher the influence drug addiction were found to include peer/co-worker 

influence, depression, stress, frustration, family background, low self-esteem, desire to stay 

active etcFactors that influence drug addiction were found to include peer/co-worker influence, 

depression, stress, frustration, family background, low self-esteem, desire to stay active etc. 

This finding is supported by responses from the in-depth interview and also by the works of 

other scholars. Findings from the study influenced the study recommendations amongst which 

it identified provision of rehabilitative programs to affected members, sanctioning of drivers 

under the influence of substance, restricting the advertisement and availability of these 

products in their place of work and enlightening them on the health hazards as the various 

strategies that can be applied to curb drug addiction among road transport operators. 

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By

Dr.Gbenemene Kpae

  Department of Sociology 

University of Portharcourt

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH

( ISSN 2811-2466 ) Dr.Gbenemene Kpae1*



   
                                                                                                                                

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Introduction 

Drug addiction is defined as the compulsive, out-of-control drug use, despite negative 

consequences (Malenka, Nestler, and Hyman, 2009). Drug addiction also refers to a “chronic, 

relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite 

harmful consequences. It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain, they 

change its structure and how it works. These changes can be long lasting and can lead to many 

harmful effects, often self-destructing behaviours” (NIDA, 2016). Drug addiction, also called 

substance dependence or dependence syndrome, is a condition where a person feels a strong 

need to take a drug Examples of the substances includes opium, marijuana, cannabis, kola nut, 

cigarette and central nervous system (CNS) agent like amphetamines etc (Adekoya, Adepoju, 

Owoeye, 2011).In the history of drug addiction, it has been a problem from the beginning. 

Before the 19th century, drugs that are commonly used or abuse were related to plants that 

helped reduce feelings of pain. In modern times, we have harmful synthetic drugs, but even the 

primitive forms of drug abuse in the past were dangerous. Even when natural substances are 

being abused, the body can experience addiction (aforeverrecovery.com, 2018). We cannot 

therefore talk about the history of drug abuse without giving reference to drug use and abuse, 

as it is through drug use or abuse that one gets addicted to such drugs. The United States of 

America, for instance, before the Civil War did not entirely understood the effects of drugs and 

their addictive qualities. This was an issue as since many soldiers of the Civil War were given 

drugs for pain and became addicted to them. In the 1800s, morphine, codeine and cocaine were 

developed and unregulated. The wide availability of these newly developed drugs made it 

easier for many people to try and become addicted (aforeverrecovery.com, 2018). 

Addiction to psychoactive substance by vehicle drivers is a common occurrence globally. This 

practice involves the use of virtually all substances known today (Okpataku, 2017). Most 

commercial vehicle drivers believe that the use of such substances such as cigarette, marijuana 

etc, will improve their performance and keep sleep at a far reach for as long as possible (Akpan 

and Ikorok, 2014). Addiction to these substances is due to some reasons. In most situations, 

due to the nature of their job which mainly involves multiple trips with little time for rest, quite 

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

a number of these drivers believe that amplifying, augmenting or enhancing their strength with 

the use of certain substance will aid in long hours of effective performance (Usman and 

Ipinmoye, 2015). Drug addiction is a problem that has been increasing immensely among our 

society today (Mega essays.com,2017). Drug addiction hinders us from accomplishing our 

goals or dreams in life. People sometimes feel they are too bright, too powerful, too much in 

control to become addictive. Addiction can trap anyone. It can lead to harming one’s body, 

causing problems in family structure, and contribute to the delinquency in society.Drug 

addiction continues to be a problem among youths and adult citizens across countries and 

communities globally, of which road transport workers are included. According to the National 

Institute on Drug Abuse (2014), people who suffer from addiction often have one or more 

accompanying medical issues, which may include lung or cardiovascular diseases, stroke, 

cancer and mental disorders. Research has shown that tobacco smoke causes cancer of the 

mouth, throat, larynx, blood, lungs, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder and cervix. In addition, 

some drugs of addiction such as inhalants, are toxic to the nerve cells and may damage or 

destroy them either in the brain or peripheral nervous system (Aremu, 2010).Drug addiction 

and mental illness co-exists. In some cases, mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, or 

schizophrenia, may precede addiction; in other cases, drug addiction may trigger or exacerbate 

those mental disorders, particular in people with specific vulnerabilities (National Institute of 

Drug Abuse, 2014). Beyond the harmful consequences for the person with the addiction, drug 

addiction can cause serious health problems for others. Three of the more devastating and 

troubling consequences of addiction on others include 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA, 2016) provides a comprehensive definition of 

drug addiction, stating, “addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is 

characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences.” Addiction 

is recognized as a brain disease because drugs literally cause changes to the brain.  The initial 

decision to take drugs is mostly voluntary. However, when addiction takes over, a person’s 

ability to exert self-control can become seriously impaired. Brain-imaging studies from people 

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

addicted to drugs show physical changes in areas of the brain that are critical for judgment, 

decision making, learning, memory, and behaviour control (NIDA, 2016). 

When people first use a drug, they may perceive what seem to be positive effects; they also 

may believe that they can control their use. However, drugs can quickly take over a person’s 

life. Over time, if drug use continues, other pleasurable activities become less pleasurable, and 

taking the drug becomes necessary for the user just to feel “normal.” They may then 

compulsively seek and take drugs even though it causes tremendous problems for themselves 

and their loved ones. Some people may start to feel the need to take higher or more frequent 

doses, even in the early stages of their drug use. These are the telltale signs of an addiction 

(NIDA, 2014).According to Ohanyere (2012), the status of drug addiction or dependency is not 

acquired or developed suddenly. It is by the process of gradual and habitual intake or 

consumption of drugs. However, the very first use of addictive drugs in most cases, signals the 

beginning of a dangerous journey whose end the user may not have contemplated and the 

consequences of which he could never have imagined (Ohanyere, 2012). There are different 

stages and processes of getting into drug addiction. Some may actually seem normal and 

harmless, but consistent indulgence in them results in addiction. The following are identifiable 

processes or stages: 

 Use of gateway drugs: Gateway drugs are socially accepted drugs. Although these 

drugs have milder effects, prolonged use of such drug would either have dangerous 

effects on the user or lead him to the use of more drugs (Ohanyere, 2012). When the 

drug no longer creates the desired effect on the individual’s body due to consistent use, 

the victim goes for something stronger. Gateway drugs are drugs that introduce the 

victim to drugs of addiction. These drugs are used at social functions and for 

entertainment notwithstanding that they possess some inherent dangers. According to 

Ohanyere (2012), these drugs include kola nuts, cigarettes etc. There are other 

substances that are taken for acceptable reasons but could lead to drug addiction. They 

include; coffee, sleeping pills like Valium five and benylin syrups. These substances 

are socially acceptable because when taken moderately taken, they may not be harmful. 

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However consistent use or abuse of any of them leads to deeper and more dangerous 

drug habits. They are the starting point for most addicts. 

 Habitual Stage: When a drug user develops appetite for drugs, as a result of prolonged 

practice or habit drug use, he becomes a habitual user. At this stage, he desires and 

hungers for drugs from time to time, spending money to buy the drug for his use. At 

this stage also, he uses the drug as a result of need because his appetite calls for it 

(Ohanyere, 2012). A habitual drug user is already into a serious situation, but his case 

can still be remedied if he is willing. A habitual drug user could spend the bulk of his 

resources to sustain and satisfy his drug desires. Habitual drug users in most cases end 

up as drug addicts.  

 Drug dependent persons/addicts: When a habitual and prolonged use of drug lead to a 

situation where the user can no longer do without it, such person is described as a drug 

addict. When he reaches a stage where he cannot function properly without the use of 

the drug, he is considered a drug dependent person. The daily functioning of such 

person is only aided and influenced by his daily drug use (Ohanyere, 2012). When a 

person is drug dependent, he loses the capacity to think for himself, exercise his will, 

and have moral judgement. His physical, mental and emotional capacity is determined 

by drugs. When the drug content in his body expires, he becomes desperate and 

demonstrates the feat of craving. This makes him tremble and his entire body will be 

disorganized and disorientated until he takes another dose of drug. People who reach 

this level often die suddenly if help and rehabilitation are not available to them on time. 

Factors responsible for drug addiction among road transport workers 

The prevalence of psychoactive substances addiction has been hung on socio-demographics, 

psychological, environmental and socio-cultural factors such as: low socio-economic status 

(Rozi, Butt, &Akhtar, 2007; Mergen, Mergen, Tavil, Ongel& Tan, 2011; Thakur, Prinja, 

Bhatnagar&Sinha, 2013); being a male (Sen&Basu, 2000; Peltzer, 2001; Sinha& Gupta, 2007); 

older age (Peltzer, 2001); depression and anxiety (Halperin, Smith, Heiligenstein, Brown & 

Fleming, 2010; Saravana&Heldhy, 2014; and Breslau, Kilbey&Andreski, 1991); violence 

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

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experience including intimate partner violence (Caleyachetty, Echouffo-Tcheugui, Stephenson 

&Muennig, 2014); obesity (Ansari, Labeeb&Kotb, 2012); peer pressure and polygamous 

family background (Aina&Olorunshola, 2008); desire to remain awake at night (Rasheed, 

2010) and broken homes (Haukkala, Utela, Vartiainen, Mcalister&Knekt, 2000; Mee, 2014; 

and Didilescu, Inagaki, Sfeateu, Hanganu& Virtanen, 2014). Apart from these, 

industrialization, urbanization and increased exposure to western life style have also been 

found to contribute to the increasing trend of drug addiction with alcohol and cigarette acting 

as gateway drugs to the use of other substances such as cocaine, heroin, amphetamine, 

inhalants and hallucinogens (Abiodun, Adelekan, Ogunremi, Oni &Obayan, 1994).  

Consequences of drug addiction on road transport workers 

Drug addiction occurs most frequently among young people in the 15-35 age group, with a 

particular concentration in the 18-25 age group. It thus includes those who have entered or who 

are just about to enter the workforce. The effect of drugs on productivity is a function of the 

type and quantities of drugs consumed, as well as of the performance requirements of the jobs 

in question. Tasks that require higher-level judgement, constant attention, immediate memory 

and fine motor skills are obviously more easily disrupted by drugs than physical labour 

(UNDCP, 2006). 

Gupta (2012), in study on “Drug/alcohol addiction in India–Disturbing trends” found that drug 

addiction is becoming a major health problem in India and the association between drug 

addiction and HIV/AIDS has been a prime concern for health authorities in India. The drug 

problem and its consequences have been particularly alarming in the north-eastern states. In 

some states of north-east 80% of all injectable drug users were HIV positive.Drug addiction 

always takes an immense financial toll on a person’s life. As a person’s use increases, the 

monetary demands rise as well—the financial strife can extend into almost every area of their 

life, affecting not only their economic well-being, but that of their family, as well. The cost of 

buying drugs adds up fast, especially for a person who is using on a daily basis; as their 

tolerance increases, the amount they need to achieve the desired effect rises, thus requiring a 

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

larger payout. If the drug user has a joint banking account with a loved one, such as a 

checking, savings, or credit card account, they may spend large amounts of money or max the 

cards out in their pursuit to use; in worst-case scenarios this can cause bankruptcy or 

foreclosure as people struggle to make ends meet (www.rehabcenter.net). 

Drugs affect perception, attention, cognition, coordination and reaction time, among other 

neurological functions, which affect safe driving. Cannabis is the most prevalent illicit drug 

detected in drivers in Canada and the United States and Europe and Oceania. Research has 

found that habitual cannabis use is linked to a 9.5-fold greater risk of driving accidents, 

cocaine and benzodiazepines increase the risk 2-10 times, amphetamines or multiple drug use 

increase the risk 5-30 times, and alcohol in combination with drugs increases the risk of getting 

seriously injured or killed while driving by a factor of 20-200. That increased risk also has 

consequences for passengers and others on the road, who may become victims of drug-affected 

driving. 

Strategies to curb drug addiction among road transport workers 

Macionis (2001) states that re-socialization means radically changing an inmate’s personality 

through carefully controlling the environment. Resocialization is a two-part process. First, the 

staff breaks down the new inmate’s existing identity, using what Goffman describes as 

“abasements, degradations, humiliations, and profanations of self.” In the second part of the re-

socialization process, the staff tries to build a new self in the inmate through a system of 

reward and punishments. Re-socialization can bring about considerable change in an inmate, 

but total institutions affect different people in different ways (Macionis, 2001). While some 

inmatesare considered ‘rehabilitated’ or recovered, other may change little. Rao (2004) views 

socialization as a process whereby an individual becomes a functioning member of the society. 

The individual becomes socialized by learning the rules and practices of social groups. By this 

process the individual develops a personality of his own. Peter Worsley explains socialization 

as the process of “transmission of culture, the process whereby men learn the rules and 

practices of social groups”. 

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http://www.rehabcenter.net/


   
                                                                                                                                

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

 Consequences of drug addiction on road transport workers 

Craig (2013) studied the economic consequences of drug addiction in Georgia, United States of 

America. He used the sample size of 125. The result of Craig’s (2002) showed the relationship 

between drug addiction and accidents while driving. Addiction to cannabis accounts for a 9.5 

higher risk of accident while cocaine and benzodiazepines increase the possibility by 2-10 

times. Intake of more than one drug increases the danger of road accidents by 5-30 times, and 

the mixture of alcohol with drugs by 2-200 (Craig, 2013). 

Similarly, studying the prevalence of substance use among commercial motorcyclists in Zaria, 

Nigeria. Alti-Muazu and Aliyu (2008) employed a sample of 200. In the study, they found that 

59% accidents among motorcyclists are linked to the use of psychoactive substances. The 

study also noted the major types of injuries sustained from drug induced accidents among 

motorcycle riders. They include lacerations (62.5%) and fractures of the upper and lower limbs 

(10.5%) (Alti-Muazu&Aliyu, 2008).Ajibade and Adefoloju (2017) employed a cross-sectional 

survey design in their study of the rationale and Implication of substance use among 

commercial road transport workers in Lokoja. Using the sample size of 180 respondents, the 

result of their study revealed that due to the altering effects these drugs have on individuals, 

road transport workers under the influence of drugs often get into trouble with road safety 

officials as well as experience marital problems, health issues, psychological traumas etc. 

(Ajibade&Adefoloju, 2017).   

Drug abuse and addiction is the result of the incongruence b/w culturally defined goals and the 

socially approved means for attaining these goals (i.e. anomie).The use of drugs is an escape 

from the pressures of not reaching and obtaining what society dictates they should. Goals need 

to be realistic and society needs to have the means for individual to meet their goals. The 

means for reaching goals needs to be equal for everyone. Because when people do not reach 

their goals they can turn to alcohol or drugs to experience the “highs” and “good feelings” as a 

substitute for their failures. This theory is also reinforced by Merton’s Stain Theory where he 

states, “Retreatism is the adaptation of those who give up not only the goals but also the 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

means. They often retreat into the world of alcoholism and drug addiction. They escape into a 

non-productive, non-striving lifestyle” (sociologypapers.com, 2017).  

When Merton was developing his theory on deviance, he analyzed American culture, structure, 

and anomie. Merton believed that all United States citizens believed and strived for the 

“American Dream”; however, the ways in which citizens obtain the “American Dream” of 

success are not the same, simply because not all citizens have the same opportunities and 

advantages. Merton believed that this leads to deviance in achieving the “American Dream” by 

some who turn to illegal activity while still believing in the dream of success but using illegal 

means to obtain the dream by such activity as illegal drug dealing to achieve financial success.  

Melton also suggested that for some they drop out of society becoming drug addicts or drifters 

realizing the “American Dream” is unattainable for them and this can lead to deviant behavior. 

However, Robert Merton's influential theory of deviant behavior was the target of criticism by 

a number of sociologists and criminologists. Many of these critics went on to propose 

alternative theories designed to strengthen or transcend limitations of Merton's formulation. 

One critique of anomie theory is that it overemphasizes the role of social class in crime and 

deviance (Brym and lie, 2007). Anomie theory applies best to lower class as they struggle most 

with the lack of resources to reconcile their goals. However, if we examine the wide spectrum 

of deviant and criminal act, anomie theory accounts inadequately for crimes beyond the narrow 

scope of street crimes. 

Research Hypotheses  

The following hypotheses were formulated to guide this study.  

1. Drug addiction is more likely to be higher among motorcycle riders than among other 

road transport workers in Onitsha North LGA. 

2. Truck drivers are more likely to be influenced into drug addiction than other road 

transport workers in Onitsha NorthLGA. 

 

 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Personal data of respondents are presented in table 1. 

Table 1: Personal Data of Respondents 

Variable Response Frequency Percent  

Distribution of respondents 
by sex 

Male 180 97.8 
No response 4 2.2 
Total 184 100.0 

Distribution of respondents 
by sex 

20 – 29 52 28.3 
30 – 39 71 38.6 
40 – 49 44 23.9 
50 – 59 15 8.2 
60 and above 2 1.1 
Total 184 100.0 

Distribution of respondents 
by marital status 
 

Single 108 58.7 
Married 71 38.6 
Separated 2 1.1 
Widowed 1 .5 
Divorced 1 .5 
No response 1 .5 
Total 184 100.0 

Distribution of respondents 
by religious affiliation 
 

Christianity 163 88.6 
Islam 7 3.8 
African Traditional Religion 6 3.3 
No response 8 4.3 
Total 184 100.0 

Distribution of respondents 
by levels of education 
 

No formal education 5 2.7 
FSLC 18 9.8 
SSCE/WASCE 94 51.1 
NCE/OND 44 23.9 
HND/B. Sc 20 10.9 
M.Sc./PhD 1 .5 
No response 2 1.1 
Total 184 100.0 

Distribution of respondents 
by occupation 
 

Bus driver 76 41.3 
Motorcycle rider 40 21.7 
Lorry/Trailer driver 24 13.0 
Tricycle driver 44 23.9 
Total 184 100.0 

Field Survey 2020 
 
 
 

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Table 1 indicates that all the respondents are male. This is actually the expected because 

virtually all the drivers of commercial vehicle in the local government area are males. 

Distribution of the respondents by age shows that it has a mean age of 35.91 years, a standard 

error of mean of .653, a median age of 35 years and a modal age of 32 years. The distribution 

also has a standard deviation of 8.859, a minimum age of 20 years and a maximum age of 62 

years. Table 1 also shows that 71 (38.6%) of the respondents are 30-39 years old while 2 

(1.1%) of the respondents are 60 years and above. 

Table 1 shows that 108 (58.7%) of the respondents are single while 1 (.5%) of the respondents 

are both widowed and divorced. This infers that majority of the respondents are single. Based 

on religious affiliation, the table shows that 163 (88.6%) of the respondents are Christians 

while 6 (3.3%) of them are African Traditional worshippers. Also in the table above, 

distribution of respondents by educational qualification shows that 94 (51.1%) of the 

respondents are SSCE/WASCE holders while 5 (2.7%) respondents have no formal education. 

Finally, in the above table, distribution of respondents according to occupation shows that 76 

(41.3%) of the respondents are bus drivers while 24 (13.0%) of them are lorry and trailer 

drivers. 

Analysis of Research Questions 

The research asked four questions to guide his work. The questions were restated and analysed 

accordingly. 

Research Question 1: How prevalent is drug addiction among road transport workers? 

Questionnaire items 7,8 and 9 were designed to provide answers to the research question 1 and 

the findings are shown in tables 2,3 and 4 respectively 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Table 2: Respondents’ view on drug addiction among road transport workers 

Response Frequency Percent Valid 
Percentage 

Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid The excessive intake of 
drugs among drivers 

68 37.0 37.0 37.0 

The use of drugs by road 
transport workers for a long 
period of time 

53 28.8 28.8 65.8 

The overdependence on 
certain drugs by road 
transport workers 

53 28.8 28.8 94.6 

 The overuse of harmful 
drugs by road transport 
workers  

10 5.4 5.4 100.0 

 Total 184 100.0 100.0  

Field Survey, 2020 

Table 2 shows that 68 (37.0%) of the respondents hold the view that drug addiction is the 

excessive intake of drugs among drivers, while 10 (5.4%) of the respondents, view drug 

addiction as the overuse of harmful drugs by road transport workers. 

Table 3:  Respondents’ views on the frequency at which road transport workers get addicted to drugs in 
Onitsha North LGA 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Very high 135 73.4 73.4 73.4 

High 24 13.0 13.0 86.4 

Low 17 9.2 9.2 95.7 

 Very low  8 4.3 4.3 100.0 

 Total 184 100.0 100.0  

Field Survey, 2020 

Table 3 shows that 135 (73.4%) respondents stressed that the frequency of addiction to drugs is 

very high while 8 (4.3%) of the respondents emphasized that it is very low. Most participants 

from the in depth interview conducted stated that drug addiction is rampant and on the high 

side. However, a 40-year-old male bus driver from Woliwo stated; 

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It is very high. Most of my colleagues usually drive around every day carrying 
one or two bottles of whiskey. If you ask them the reason for it, they will say 
that it is used for assistance. Most of these young drivers and conductors take 
drugs every time.  

Table 4: Respondents’ views on whether or not they have preference to a particular drug 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Yes 112 60.9 61.5 61.5 

No  70 38.0 38.5 100.0 

Total 182 98.9 100  

 No response  2 1.1   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

Table 4 shows that 112 (60.9%) of the respondents stated that they have preference to a 

particular drug while 70 (38.0%) of them have no preference to a particular drug. 

Research Question 2: What are the various factors responsible for drug addiction among road 

transport workers in Onitsha North LGA? Questionnaire items 10, 11, 12, and 13 were 

designed to provide answer to research question 2 and the findings are shown in tables 5, 6, 7, 

and 8 respectively. 

Table 5: Respondents’ views on whether there are situations when they will like to take drugs 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Yes 152 82.6 83.5 83.5 

No  30 16.3 16.5 100.0 

Total 182 98.9 100  

 No response  2 1.1   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Table 5 shows that 152 (82.6%) of the respondents stressed that they are situations when they 

take drugs while 30 (16.3%) of them stated that there is no situation when they will like to 

drugs 

Table 6: Respondents’ views on what condition they would like to take drugs 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid When i am depressed 68 37.0 44.2 44.2 

When i desire to stay 
awake while driving  

29 15.8 18.8 63.0 

When i am in the midst of 
my peers 

38 20.7 24.7 87.7 

 Availability of such drugs 
at my place of work  

19 10.3 12.3 100.0 

 Total 154 83.7 100.0  

Missing Not applicable 30 16.3   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

In table 6, 68 (37.0%) of the respondents stated that they take drugs when they are depressed 

while 19 (10.3%) of them stressed that they take drugs due to its availability in their place of 

work. 

Table 7: Respondents’ views on whether or not drug addiction influence deviant behaviour 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Yes 155 84.2 91.2 91.2 

No  15 8.2 8.8 100.0 

Total 170 92.4 100  

 No response  14 7.6   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 
 
Table 7 shows that 155 (84.2%) respondents agreed that drug addiction influences deviant 

behaviour while 15 (8.2%) of them made it known that drug addiction does not influence 

deviant behaviour. However, a 39 year old female administrator from Omagba Phase 1 stated: 

Most of the conductors (driver’s boy) as well as drivers constituting 
nuisance and causing trouble here and in other parks are regular drug 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

users. They get into fights often and always destroy properties in the 
process. In fact, they are one of our biggest problems here. 

Table 8: Respondents’ views on other factors that contribute to drug addiction among road transport 
workers 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Low self esteem 36 19.6 20.3 20.3 

Family instability 58 31.5 32.8 53.1 

Poor educational     background 32 17.4 18.1 71.2 

 Media influence 23 12.5 13.0 84.2 

 Work stress 28 15.2 15.8 100.0 

 Total 177 96.2 100.0  

 No response 7 3.8   

 Total 184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

In table 8, 58 (31.5%) of the respondents attributed the factors of drug addiction among road 

transport workers to family instability, while 23 (12.5%) of them reported media influence as 

the factor influencing drug addiction among road transport workers.  

Research Question 3: What are the consequences of drug addiction on road transport workers 

in Onitsha North LGA?  Questionnaire items 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 were designed to 

answer this research question 3 and the findings are shown in tables 9, 10, 11,12, 13, and 14 

respectively. 

 

 

 

 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Table 9: Respondents’ views on whether there are socioeconomic consequences of drug 
addiction on road transport workers 

 Frequency Percent Valid 
Percentage 

Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Yes 173 94.0 94.5 94.5 

No  10 5.4 5.5 100.0 

Total 1183 99.5 100  

 No response  1 .5   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

In table 9, a greater number of 173 (94%) respondents agreed that there are socioeconomic 

consequences of drug addiction on road transport workers while 10 (5.4%) of them said that 

there are no socioeconomic consequences of drug addiction on road transport workers. 

Table 10:  Respondents’ views on how they rate the consequences of drug addiction 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Very high 120 65.2 71.4 71.4 

High 38 20.7 22.6 94.0 

Low 7 3.8 4.2 98.2 

 Very low  3 1.6 1.8 100.0 

 Total 168 91.3 100  

Missing Not applicable 10 5.4   

 No response 6 3.3   

 Total 16 8.7   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

In table 10, 120 (65.2%) of the respondents stressed that the rate of these consequences of drug 

addiction is very high while 3 (1.6%) of them stated that the rate is very low. 

 

 

 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Table 11: Respondents’ views on the socioeconomic consequences of drug addiction 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid It leads to financial strife 24 13.0 13.9 13.9 

It leads to family crisis  77 41.8 44.5 58.4 

It disrupt focus, ambition 
and thinking skills 

27 14.7 15.6 74.0 

 It leads to the involvement 
in criminal activities  

32 17.4 18.5 92.5 

 Reduction in productivity 13 7.1 7.5 100.0 

 Total 173 94.0 100.0  

Missing Not applicable 10 5.4   

 No response 1 .5   

 Total 11 6.0   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

Table 11 shows that 77 (41.8%) respondents stressed on family crisis as one of the 

socioeconomic consequences of drug addiction while 13 (7.1%) of them stated reduction in 

productivity as one of the consequences of drug addiction. Many participants in the in depth 

interview pointed to the family of the addict as the victim of the addict’s behaviour. However, 

a 61 year old male trailer driver from Inland Town stated; 

             Yes. It is the family of the addict that suffers the most. We do hear of some of 
our colleagues turning their wives to punching bags due to drug influence. Some 
of them no longer take care of their wives and children as they spend most of 
what they earn on buying these drugs. 

Table 12: Respondents’ views on whether drug addiction affects driving 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Positively 17 9.2 9.5 9.5 

Negatively 162 88.0 90.5 100.0 

 Total  179 97.3 100.0  

 No response 5 2.7   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

In table 12, 162 (88.0%) of the respondents stressed that drug addiction affects driving negatively while 
17 (9.2%) of them holds claim that it affects driving positively. 
Table 13: Respondents’ views on the positive effects of drug addiction 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid It makes one feel relaxed while driving 7 3.8 38.9 38.9 

It boost ones sight  1 5 5.6 44.4 

It makes driving less tiring 2 1.1 11.1 55.6 

It reduces stress associated with the job 6 3.3 33.3 88.9 

 It makes one concentrated while driving 2 1.1 11.1 100.0 

 Total 18 9.8 100.0  

Missing Not applicable 162 88.0   

 No response 4 2.2   

 Total 166 90.2   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

Table 13 shows that 7 (3.8%) of the respondents stated that drug addiction makes one feel 

relaxed while driving while 1(.5%) of them said drug addiction boosts one’s sight while 

driving. 

Table 14: Respondents’ views on the negative consequences of drug addiction 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid It leads to accidents 129 70.1 79.1 79.1 

It makes them prone to 
anger with passengers and 
other drivers  

12 6.5 7.4 88.5 

It causes drowsiness and 
makes drivers lose focus 

12 6.5 7.4 93.9 

 It weakens the body 10 5.4 6.1 100.0 

 Total 163 86.6 100.0  

Missing Not applicable 20 10.9   

 No response 1 .5   

 Total 21 11.4   

Total  184 100.0   

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Field Survey, 2020 

On the negative consequences of drug addiction on road transport workers, table 14 shows that 

129 (70.1%) respondents stated that drug addiction leads to accidents while 10 (5.4%) of them 

stated that drug addiction weakens the body.  

Research Question 4: What strategies can be applied to control drug addiction among road 

transport workers in Onitsha North LGA? Questionnaire items 28 and 29 were designed to 

answer research question 4 and the findings are shown in tables 15 and 16 respectively. 

Table 15: Respondents’ views on whether drug addiction among road transport workers can be 
ameliorated 

 Frequency Percent Valid 
Percentage 

Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Yes 178 96.7 100.0 100.0 

 No response  6 3.3   

Total  184 100.0   

Field Survey, 2020 

Table 15 shows that of 184 respondents, 178 (96.7%) of them stated that drug addiction can be 

ameliorated while 6 (3.3%) respondents claimed that drug addiction among road transport 

workers cannot be ameliorated. 

Table 16: Respondents’ views on the measures that can be applied to curb drug addiction among road 
transport workers 
 Frequency Percent Valid 

Percentage 
Cumulative 
Percentage 

Valid Effective rehabilitative programs 
should be available for the 
affected members 

86 46.7 47.3 47.3 

Road transport workers should 
be enlightened on the health 
hazards of addiction to these 
substances 

41 22.3 22.5 69.8 

Road transport workers who are 
addicts should be sanctioned by 
the NURTW 

37 20.1 20.3 90.1 

 There should policies enacted to 
reduce the products in their 
places of work 

18 9.8 9.9 100.0 

 Total 182 98.9 100.0  

 No response 4 1.1   

Total  184 100.0   

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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 08 || August, 2025 || 

“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Field Survey, 2020 

In table 16, 86 (46.7%) of the respondents agreed that effective rehabilitative programmes 

should be made available for affected members while 18 (9.8%) stated that there should be 

policies enacted to reduce the products in their places of work. Most of the participants for the 

in-depth interview carried out stated that NURTW can help reduce the prevalence of drug 

addiction among road transport workers by stopping addicted members from driving, placing a 

ban on sales of these drugs around the park and also fining defaulters.    

 Test of Hypotheses 

The researcher tested the two hypotheses postulated for this study. The hypotheses were 

restated and test as follows; 

Hypotheses 1: Drug addiction is more likely to be higher among motorcycle riders than among 

other road transport workers in the Onitsha North LGA. Data in table 17 formed the basis for 

testing hypotheses 1 

Table 17: One Way ANOVA testing the relationship between occupation and drug addiction 

Descriptives 
 Drug addiction   
 N Mean Std. 

Deviation 
Std. 
Error 

95% Confidence Interval for Mean Minimum Maximum 
Lower Bound Upper Bound 

Bus driver 75 13.48 4.551 .526 12.43 14.53 4 20 
Motorcycle rider 38 15.18 4.248 .689 13.79 16.58 4 20 
Lorry/Trailer driver 24 14.46 3.176 .648 13.12 15.80 7 19 
Tricycle driver 44 12.93 4.516 .681 11.56 14.30 5 20 
Total 181 13.83 4.367 .325 13.19 14.47 4 20 

Field Survey, 2020 
 
Table18: ANOVA Table 

                                         ANOVA 
 Drug addiction   
 Sum of Squares Df Mean Square F Sig. 
Between Groups 123.843 3 41.281 2.208 .089 
Within Groups 3309.184 177 18.696   
Total 3433.028 180    

Field Survey, 2020 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

No significant relationship was observed between occupation and drug addiction among road 

transport workers at P=.089 in Onitsha North LGA. The mean scores of the independent 

variables were compared using the Scheffe test and no significant difference was observed. It 

then implies that drug addiction is not more likely to be higher among motorcycle riders than 

among other road transport workers in the Onitsha North LGA. 

Hypothesis 2: Truck drivers are more likely to be influenced into drug addiction than other 

road transport workers in the Onitsha North LGA. Data in table 19 formed the basis for testing 

hypothesis 2 

Table 19: One Way ANOVA testing the relationship between occupation and being influenced into drug 
addiction 
Descriptives 
 Influence of drug on driving   
 N Mean Std. 

Deviation 
Std. 
Error 

95% Confidence Interval for 
Mean 

Minimum Maximum 

Lower 
Bound 

Upper Bound 

Bus driver 75 13.49 5.257 .607 12.28 14.70 4 20 
Motorcycle rider 40 15.93 4.451 .704 14.50 17.35 4 20 
Lorry/Trailer 
driver 

24 15.00 4.374 .893 13.15 16.85 7 20 

Tricycle driver 44 13.20 4.835 .729 11.73 14.67 4 20 
Total 183 14.15 4.960 .367 13.43 14.88 4 20 

Field Survey, 2020 
Table 20: ANOVA Table 
                                                                             ANOVA 
Influence of drug on driving   
 Sum of Squares df Mean Square F Sig. 
Between Groups 215.035 3 71.678 3.010 .032 
Within Groups 4262.681 179 23.814   
Total 4477.716 182    

Field Survey, 2020 

A significant relationship was observed between occupation and being influenced into drug 

addiction among road transport workers at P=.032 in Onitsha North LGA. The mean scores of 

the independent variables were compared using the Scheffe test and significant difference was 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

observed. It follows that truck drivers are more likely to be influenced into drug addiction than 

other road transport workers in the Onitsha North LGA. 

Finally, it was found that possible measures can be taken or put in place so as to curb 

drug addiction and which is in line with the responses gotten from the in-depth interview such 

as sanctioning, restriction of these products at their places of work and also enlightening them 

on the health hazards of these substances. This finding is consistent with Bobo and Husten 

(2000) who suggested that policies should be made so as to restrict the advertisement and sale 

of drug beverages and also carry out campaigns that would educate the general public on the 

consequences of substance dependence. 

Conclusion 

Following the major findings of this study, it is evident that peers, work stress, and the desire 

to remain awake and active while driving, are the important factors on which most of the drug 

use initiation is based, and on which this habit starts.  Most drug addiction started with the use 

of soft categories of drugs, and later develops to the use of the hard categories. Continuation of 

the use of drugs is a pivotal problem for other social and economic troubles for the individual 

and the society.This research work on the socioeconomic consequences of drug addiction 

among road transport workers in Onitsha North LGAtried to examine the frequency of drug 

addiction, the socio-cultural factors influencing drug addiction, the consequences and possible 

strategies to curb drug addiction. From the study, one can deduce that most road transport 

workers get addicted to certain drugs because of their ready availability in their places of work, 

and due to the belief that without taking these drugs on a daily basis, these road transport 

workers may not be able to function more productively and stay active while driving. Regular 

use of these drugs leads to a state of compulsive and out of control drug habits even in the face 

of negative consequences of these drugs on driving. However, despite the commendable efforts 

directed towards curbing the menace of drug addiction, consumption of illicit drugs is still on 

the high side. This is, in fact, one of the major problems facing the road transport workers in 

Onitsha North LGA in particular and Nigeria in general. 

 Recommendation 

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“Illicit Drug Use and The Challenges of addiction." 

 
 

 

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations have been given as the 

potential ways to curb the problems of drug addiction among road transport workers. 

1. Effective rehabilitation centres should be established and adequately financed to aid in 

the reorientation and re-socialization of affected members into the society. 

2. There is need for stronger emotional and familial attachment between parents or 

guardians and their children. The family as a basic social institution is responsible for 

the socialization of their children into the society as people for decent homes are less 

likely to become dependent on drugs. 

3. Restriction should be placed on the availability and access to drugs in their places of 

work. This goes to greater extent in reducing the rate of addiction of these substances 

among road transport workers.  

4. Public enlightenment and education on drug abuse should include reducing the harm of 

the society on the rehabilitated drug addicts, which is perpetrated through suspicions, 

discrimination and denials of rights. Under the public enlightenment, there should be a 

focus on peer education and management, as the peers were found to be the most 

consistent source of initiation to drugs among others. 

 

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