The September edition of the Aba Storytelling Hangout has sparked candid conversations on pornography and drug abuse, using art and dialogue to shed light on one of society’s most pressing challenges—Addiction.
Held at Margaret Avenue beside Enitonia Hotel, in recognition of September as Substance Abuse Prevention Month in the United States, the gathering brought together poets, comedians, doctors, teachers, tech professionals, fashion designers, musicians, and young creatives into what organizers described as a “circle of expression and reflection.”
From the outset, the atmosphere was charged. Performers combined spoken word and storytelling to explore the realities of addiction, while the audience—made up of students, artists, and community members—engaged in open discussions on its causes, stereotypes, withdrawal struggles, and recovery pathways.
Opinions varied on pornography and masturbation. Some participants argued masturbation could be beneficial, helping individuals avoid unwanted pregnancies, enhance self-awareness, and strengthen intimacy. Others, however, raised concerns about spiritual implications, lowered self-esteem, and unrealistic expectations shaped by pornography.
Several attendees shared personal testimonies of overcoming addiction. A medical counselor, Francisca Adielechi noted that “most married men regret introducing pornography into their marriages, because in the long run it becomes a problem when partners can no longer satisfy each other.”
On the subject of drugs, convener Uche Njie emphasized the importance of abstinence. Participants also shared firsthand stories of substance use and recovery, offering practical strategies such as avoiding triggers, changing social circles, and drawing strength from faith or higher causes.
The evening balanced serious dialogue with moments of levity. A “Rizz Up Challenge,” hosted by comedian Prince Stephen Uche Onyegbule, had participants exchanging witty pick-up lines, while September celebrants were honored with a cake-cutting session.
Organizers extended special appreciation to Vision Alive Foundation and One Aba Boy Foundation for their continued support, noting that the platform has grown beyond entertainment to serve as a space for social re-engineering, collaboration, and youth empowerment in Aba.
As the event drew to a close, participants departed with a sense of community and renewed conviction in the power of words to drive change.
