By Bilabi Oghenetega Clement
A street lingo for synthetic cannabinoids; “Colorado” is a trending cocktail of psychotropic drugs commonly used by many Nigerians especially youths. The phrase “on colos on colos” is now a popular trend among the youths in Nigeria and it’s usually associated with videos of teenagers and adults acting wild after becoming inebriated
Colorado, according to drug experts, is a dangerous substance smoked by youths to enliven their spirit and get intoxicated, most times leading to insanity.It is derived from a synthetic plant and contains heavy metal, which is not healthy for human consumption. It often causes victims to hallucinate and become unstable.
The use of synthetic cannabinoids has been associated with a range of health risks and adverse effects. These can include rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and even death in some cases. Long-term use can also lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
Synthetic cannabinoids are illegal in many countries due to their potential for harm and abuse with Nigeria not excluding. The appeal of synthetic cannabinoids in Nigeria lies in their easy availability, affordable price, and the misconception that they are a safer alternative to natural cannabis. However, this is far from the truth.
The Nigerian government has recognized the problem of synthetic cannabinoids abuse and has taken steps to address it. Law enforcement agencies have been conducting raids on establishments selling synthetic cannabinoids, and there have been efforts to increase awareness about the dangers of these substances through public campaigns.
However, synthetic cannabinoids continue to be sold and used in Nigeria, largely due to the underground nature of their distribution. More comprehensive strategies that involve education, prevention, and treatment are needed to effectively tackle the issue of synthetic cannabinoids abuse in the country.
