In a startling development ahead of the local government elections in Kano State, the Nigerian Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported that 20 aspirants have tested positive for drug use. The announcement was made by the NDLEA’s state commander, Abubakar Ahmad, who revealed that these candidates are from the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
The substances detected among the aspirants include opioids, THC (the active compound in cannabis), benzodiazepines, and nicotine. Ahmad emphasized that the drug screening process is ongoing, and additional results may emerge.
Notably, no female aspirants have tested positive for drugs so far. Ahmad highlighted that some detected substances are related to tobacco, which has sparked debate on whether tobacco should be classified as a drug.
This initiative is not new to Kano State; similar drug testing measures were implemented in 2018 for political appointees, civil servants, and students seeking tertiary education admissions.
The local government elections, scheduled for October 26, will determine the occupants of 44 chairmanship and 484 councillorship seats across Kano State