Fear is rising across Ogun State as authorities warn that a dangerous drug practice known as “bluetoothing” is gaining ground among young people.
The Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr Kehinde Fatungase, described the trend as a life-threatening act in which individuals inject themselves with the blood of someone who has just taken drugs, hoping to “share the high.”
Fatungase issued the warning in a statement released in Abeokuta, stressing that the behaviour could fuel a wave of new infections and complicate ongoing public health efforts.
He said the practice exposes participants to severe risks including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, blood infections, dangerous reactions, and even overdose. According to him, “In Ogun State, we are committed to protecting our youths.”
He urged anyone struggling with drug use to seek help, noting that support services are available. “If you or someone you know is struggling with drug use, help is available at our Key Population One Stop Shop health facility at 4 Kemta Idi Aba, Abeokuta, for treatment and counselling services,” he said.
Fatungase appealed to young people to prioritise their well-being and encourage friends to avoid the act. “We encourage our youths to choose life, choose health, choose future, say no to bluetoothing and encourage friends to stay safe. Together, we can prevent HIV and safeguard the next generation,” he added.
Bluetoothing, which is also called “flashblood” in some countries, has been reported in places such as South Africa, Tanzania and Fiji, where health experts have linked it to spikes in HIV and other infections.
In recent months, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, working with community groups and the Pyrates Confraternity, has conducted more than 125 sensitisation campaigns across schools, religious centres and communities, reaching over 30,000 people.
The Ogun State Ministry of Sports Development has also teamed up with youth-led organisations like the Drug Free Project to use sports as a tool for awareness and rehabilitation.
