The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has said at least 20 candidates in the upcoming Kano State local government elections have tested positive for multiple drugs.
This was disclosed by the anti-narcotic agency on Monday, September 10.
According to Abubakar Ahmad, the NDLEA commander in Kano, the aspirants, all from the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), tested positive for substances such as opioids (including codeine), THC (the active component of cannabis), benzodiazepines, and nicotine.
While none of the female aspirants tested positive, the NDLEA assured the public that the screening would continue, with further testing to ensure that all candidates are free from drug use or abuse.
Ahmed added that, once the drug screening is concluded, the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) will carry out the final verification of the aspirants.
The local government elections are scheduled for October 26, 2024, with 44 chairmanship and 484 councillor positions up for contest across Kano State. The NDLEA’s drug test is part of efforts to ensure that candidates are fit for public office.
