 has urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to include political office holders and aspirants in its proposed drug testing programme.){kind=link}
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to include political office holders and aspirants in its proposed drug testing programme.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has consistently advocated for mandatory drug integrity tests for prospective couples, corps members, and others as a means of curbing drug abuse in the country.
Marwa renewed the call on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
He clarified that the tests are not intended to punish individuals, but rather to provide early intervention for those struggling with drug use to prevent addiction and health deterioration.
Responding on Thursday, NANS Vice President for Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Akinbodunse Felicia, praised the NDLEA’s approach but cautioned against selective application.
She emphasized that drug tests should also be extended to elected officials and political aspirants across both state and federal levels.
“While the drug testing proposal is a welcome development, it must not focus solely on young Nigerians,” Akinbodunse said. “If we are truly committed to fighting drug abuse, then political leaders—those responsible for making and enforcing laws—must also be held accountable.”
She further called for legislation to institutionalise mandatory drug tests for politicians.
“Nigerians deserve a leadership that is free from the influence of drugs. If we demand drug tests from youths joining the NYSC or entering into marriage, then our leaders must meet even higher standards,” she added.
Akinbodunse urged the NDLEA to collaborate with the National Assembly to ensure the quick passage of a bill mandating drug tests for all political figures.
According to her, “A drug-free leadership will boost public trust and reinforce the message that accountability applies to everyone.”
NANS reiterated its support for meaningful initiatives to address drug abuse but maintained that such efforts must be inclusive and equitably enforced across all segments of society.