Kano State Government Orders Mandatory Drug Test For Council Contestants

The Kano State Government has ordered a mandatory drug test for contestants seeking election into the executive council in the state.

A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Muhammad Garba, on Wednesday, October 13 said all interested persons should report to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the state for the screening, beginning from Tuesday, October 12, 2021, to the close of nomination form sale.

Garba said the decision was part of the government’s policy to rid Kano of illicit substance, insisting that no aspirant would be allowed without NDLEA certification.

Further, he warned that no contestant would be screened without undergoing the mandatory drug test ahead of the October 16 state congress of the ruling party.

“Similar tests were carried out for contestants into local government election, as well as political appointees including members of the state executive council before offering them a portfolio,” the statement says.

The Commissioner added that Governor Ganduje had already mandated the state office of the NDLEA to conduct the tests.

Garba reaffirmed Governor Abdullahi Ganduje administration’s commitment to stop drug abuse among political leaders.

“Government will not hesitate to issue necessary disciplinary measures against anyone found with the trace of illicit substances, including a compulsory recommendation for rehabilitation,” he stated.