{
  "id": 5736486,
  "title": "Drug addiction took 10 years of my life, left me smelling at work — Man narrates",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/05/drug-addiction-took-10-years-of-my-life-left-me-smelling-at-work-man",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-05T07:30:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/drug-addiction-took-10-years-of-my-life-left-me-smelling-at-work-man-narrates/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Abraham, a former drug addict, recounted his 10-year struggle with addiction and its devastating impact on his life. Speaking on NarcoTales S4 E8, he detailed how substance dependence led to his loss of employment, strained family relationships, and physical health deterioration. His addiction began in his mid-20s, and he initially lost his job at an oil company due to his offensive body odor. Colleagues would open windows and spray air fresheners whenever he entered the office. Abraham's addiction affected every aspect of his existence, including finances, health, career, and relationships, even straining his relationship with his siblings. He lost nearly 10 years of life, regretting not having a normal career, marriage, or other opportunities. Physical scars from needle injections left him disabled, unable to enjoy activities like dancing or walking without limping. He often wore long sleeves to hide the scars. Abraham's recovery was supported by his pastor, church members, and professional help. Despite initial challenges, he found purpose in wig-making and advocacy for drug abuse awareness, urging others to seek help and break the cycle of silence.",
  "summary": "A Nigerian man shares his harrowing 10-year journey through drug addiction, detailing job loss, family strain, and his path to recovery. Learn about his ex Read More: https://punchng.com/drug-addiction-took-10-years-of-my-life-left-me-smelling-at-work-man-narrates/",
  "key_points": [
    "Abraham spent 10 years battling drug addiction",
    "Addiction led to job loss and strained relationships",
    "Physical scars from needle injections disabled him"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The ordeal of addiction has left Abraham with a decade of lost life and opportunities, but his recovery has given him a new purpose in advocating for awareness and helping others.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch",
        "title": "Drug addiction took 10 years of my life, left me smelling at work — Man narrates",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/05/drug-addiction-took-10-years-of-my-life-left-me-smelling-at-work-man-5737182",
        "published": "2026-09-05T07:34:25.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}