Social Impact of Cannabis Smoking on Smokers in Owerri West LGA, Nigeria

Abstract

Cannabis is a weed derived from the cannabis sativa plant. It is usually smoked to get intoxicated. This is act though rampant; seem not to have been socially accepted by the society. Thus, smokers of cannabis are labelled criminals and irresponsible even though these labels may be mere stereotype. In view of this, the study investigated the social impact of cannabis smoking on cannabis smokers. It tried to find out how cannabis smoking has affected the social relationship of cannabis smokers. The study adopted the labelling theory of Howard Becker because it explains the stereotypical stigma attached to cannabis smokers. The study adopted a qualitative research design and interviewed 2 criminologists, a Nigeria Drug, Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) commandant, 2 NDLEA officials and 10 cannabis smokers. Both primary and secondary sources of data collection techniques were adopted for this study however; findings were further discussed for better comprehension. The findings of this study revealed that, people do not disassociate themselves from cannabis smokers even though they believe cannabis smokers are criminals and are irresponsible because most criminals smoke cannabis. It was also revealed that smoking cannabis does not make individuals prone to criminal activities because it is not addictive but, could become a habit. Based on these findings, the study recommends that, government and non-government agencies (NGOs) create awareness on the negative consequences of smoking cannabis through the mass media and social media. It was also recommended that; the public be sensitized against negative stereotypes against cannabis users. In furtherance to this, law enforcement agencies should enforce the laws against cannabis and other drug producers, distributors and sellers so as to curb the spread of cannabis use in Owerri West LGA and Nigeria at large.