The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to include political office holders and candidates in its proposed mandatory drug testing initiative.
This call comes as the NDLEA, led by Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has suggested drug integrity tests for various groups such as corps members and prospective couples to combat substance abuse.
During a courtesy visit to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, Marwa reiterated that the tests are meant to be preventive, not punitive, aimed at early detection and treatment for those who test positive to prevent addiction and other health issues.
However, NANS has raised concerns about the selectivity of the initiative. In a statement on Thursday, the association’s Vice President for Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Akinbodunse Felicia, praised the NDLEA’s efforts but stressed that the drug tests should not target only young Nigerians.
She emphasized that those seeking elective positions and those already holding public offices should also be subject to the same drug integrity tests.
“The proposed drug test is a commendable step, but it must not target only young Nigerians,” Akinbodunse stated.
“If we are to build a drug-free society, then the spotlight must also shine on those in power — those who make and enforce the laws.”
She further called for legislation that would institutionalize mandatory drug testing for political candidates and office holders, reinforcing that leaders should be held to higher standards.
“We applaud the NDLEA’s proactive approach to tackling drug abuse through early detection. However, promoting a drug-free society requires consistency and fairness,” she added.
Akinbodunse highlighted the troubling history of some political figures being linked to drug-related misconduct and argued that if young Nigerians are required to undergo drug tests before entering service or marriage, politicians should face similar scrutiny.
She urged the NDLEA to collaborate with the National Assembly to ensure the passage of a law that mandates drug testing for political figures.
“A clean and drug-free leadership will inspire public confidence and demonstrate that no one is above accountability,” Akinbodunse concluded.
NANS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting any legitimate efforts to combat substance abuse, but emphasized that such policies must be fair and inclusive, covering all sectors and social classes equally.
