A dangerous illicit gin called Chaskale is spreading rapidly across Plateau State, claiming victims among youths and older residents alike. Community leaders say it's even deadlier than Goskolo, another banned local spirit that plagued the region previously.
Chaskale is a highly intoxicating traditional alcoholic drink made from pure or adulterated ethanol mixed with fermented grains, herbs, and colouring agents. The beverage originates from the Zaar people of Bauchi State but has taken root in Plateau communities over recent years.
The drink has a pungent, bitter, and sharp taste that burns the throat immediately upon consumption. Drinkers seek it specifically for its potency and ability to induce rapid, intense intoxication rather than for flavour.
The aftertaste is deeply bitter and sour, causing severe inebriation and disorientation within minutes of drinking. This quick effect has made it dangerously popular among young people across the state.
Chaskale has spread to Jos North, Jos South, Mangu, Pankshin, Shendam, Langtang, Barkin Ladi, and Bokkos local government areas. Health advocates warn that the drink triggers liver cirrhosis, kidney failure, diabetes, and colon cancer, with deaths and permanent disabilities reported.
In May, women protesters in Jos South identified brewing dens and destroyed the facilities to stop production. Within days, the illegal drinking joints reopened and resumed business as usual.
Pastor Luka Timothy, who has watched the crisis unfold, expressed deep concern about the impact on young people. "It is quite sad that our young men and even girls have taken to drinking these illicit drinks, which have turned them into useless and hopeless beings," he told reporters.
Women activists say widespread consumption has caused productivity to collapse among young people and devastated households across communities. Marriages have fractured and family incomes have dried up as addiction spreads.
Community leaders and health advocacy groups have repeatedly called on government to impose a total ban on Chaskale production, sale, and consumption. They're demanding strict enforcement and aggressive crackdowns on illegal brewers operating throughout the state.
NGOs and concerned parents have staged multiple protest marches against the drink's distribution. Despite these efforts, the illegal trade continues to flourish with little intervention from authorities.
Health advocates have compared drinking Chaskale to consuming hard drugs because of the severe health complications and addiction it causes. They warn that the beverage fuels reckless behaviour among youth and destroys families.
Our correspondent spoke with multiple people across Plateau State whose lives have been damaged by Chaskale and similar dangerous brews. Their testimonies paint a picture of a community under siege from an epidemic of illicit alcohol.
