Residents of Osogbo have voiced their concerns over the increasing presence of mentally ill individuals on the town’s streets.
Speaking with the Newes Bulletin on Monday, they described the situation as alarming and urged the state government to take immediate action.
Many residents believe the rising number of mentally unstable persons is linked to factors such as drug abuse and other societal issues. They called for government intervention, including evacuating and rehabilitating affected individuals or returning them to their respective states.
Mr. Biola Awosun, a resident, suggested that some of those living with mental illness were suffering the consequences of their own actions. He attributed the high prevalence to drug abuse and alleged involvement in diabolic activities. Awosun urged the government to act swiftly for the safety of the public.
Similarly, Mrs. Adenike Faponda, a trader at Ejigbo Motor Park, claimed that many of the mentally ill persons roaming the streets were from other states. She appealed to the government to relocate them to psychiatric homes for proper care and rehabilitation.
Dr. Andrew Dosunmu, a psychologist and founder of Psychcare Foundation, highlighted drug abuse as the primary cause of mental illness among Osogbo’s youth. He noted that psychotropic substances—both synthetic and non-synthetic—were being widely abused, leading to increasing cases of schizophrenia, depression, and other mental disorders.
“The alarming rate of drug addiction among adolescents, particularly between the ages of 16 and 45, has significantly contributed to the growing number of mentally ill persons on our streets,” Dosunmu said.
He also pointed to family instability as a contributing factor, noting that children from broken homes often struggle with psychological distress, making them more vulnerable to drug abuse.
“It is a collective responsibility to raise children properly for a better future. The government cannot do it alone,” he added.
Ms. Dunmilola Akinola, a nurse at Asubiaro Hospital, acknowledged the government’s efforts in addressing mental health issues but urged the state’s task force to intensify efforts in evacuating mentally ill persons from public spaces.
In response, Mr. Richard Oyegbami, the Permanent Secretary at the Osun State Ministry of Environment, assured residents that the government was actively working to rehabilitate mentally unstable persons. He explained that the ministries of Environment, Sanitation, Youth, Sports, and Special Needs were collaborating to ensure affected individuals received the necessary care.
“The government is not just watching; there is a designated facility where mentally ill persons are taken for rehabilitation,” Oyegbami stated.
Residents continue to call for swift and sustained action to address the issue and ensure the safety and well-being of both the affected individuals and the general public.
