This will not only reflect fairness but also demonstrate leadership by example. We urge the NDLEA to work with the National Assembly to ensure that such a law is passed without delay

By Titilope Adako

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to expand its proposed mandatory drug tests to include political office holders and those seeking elective positions.

This comes after the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), proposed drug integrity tests for corps members, intending couples, and others as a preventive strategy to combat substance abuse.

Marwa made this known during a meeting with the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja.

According to Marwa, the initiative is not meant to punish but to serve as an early intervention strategy.

“Who test positive before their condition deteriorates into drug dependence and other health complications,” he said.

Responding to the proposal, NANS, in a statement on Thursday, signed by its Vice President, Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Felicia Akinbodunse, said while the idea is commendable, it should not appear to target only young people.

“We commend the NDLEA for its commitment to combating drug abuse through early detection and preventive strategies. However, if we must truly promote a drug-free society, the spotlight must also shine on those in positions of power and influence,” the statement read in part.

“It is no longer news that over the years, there have been allegations linking some political office holders to drug use and related misconduct.

“If young Nigerians are being asked to undergo mandatory drug tests before entering service or marriage, then those who seek to lead the country and make laws for the people must be held to even higher standards.

“This will not only reflect fairness but also demonstrate leadership by example. We urge the NDLEA to work with the National Assembly to ensure that such a law is passed without delay.

“A clean and drug-free leadership class will inspire confidence and truly show that no one is above accountability,” Akinbodunse added.

NANS reaffirmed its support for all genuine efforts to tackle substance abuse but emphasized that the policy must be applied uniformly across all sectors and social groups.

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