Prevailing factors influencing the use of Alcohol among Motor cycle Riders in Ikenne local Government in Ogun State .Nigeria

Abstract

There has been global concern over road traffic injuries. According to the World Health
Organizations (2004), one-quarter of injury fatalities are due to traffic crashes with 90%
occurring in low- and medium-income countries. Many countries in Africa, including
Nigeria, are considered low and medium countries. A descriptive survey method design was
used in carrying out this study. A total sample of 230 motorcycle riders in Ilishan-Remo
Ogun State wre administered 230 questionnaires and the response rate was 100%. The data
collected was analysed using descriptive statistics such as percentages tables and chart. From
the study, it is apparent that majority of the respondents were exposed to alcohol at a very
tender age between 15-24years of age, they take alcohol daily. Obviously they are addicted to
alchol and they cannot go a whole day without alcohol consumption. Majority of the
respondents 142(61.8%) are aware of the health hazards associated with alcohol consumption
and 104(45.3%) are aware that excessive alcohol could cause liver trouble. It was alsorevealed that majority of the respondents 126(54.7%) spend most of their daily income on
alcohol and as such affects their socio-economic status. It was revealed that the majority of
the respondents126(54%) tried to quit drinking for a period of time and started back in a day
or two. There is therefore a need for an effective intervention/ programmes to enlighten them
or expose them to the implications of alcohol consumption.