NANS Calls for Inclusion of Politicians in NDLEA Drug Test Initiative

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to expand its proposed drug testing programme to include political office holders and aspirants.

Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), Chairman of the NDLEA, has previously advocated for mandatory drug tests for various groups, including prospective couples and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, as part of efforts to combat drug abuse in the country. Marwa reiterated this call during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of the NYSC, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

He clarified that the tests are not intended as punitive measures but are aimed at early intervention to assist those dealing with drug use and prevent its progression into addiction and health issues.

In response, NANS Vice President for Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Akinbodunse Felicia, commended the NDLEA’s initiative but stressed the importance of ensuring that the programme is not selectively applied.

“This drug testing initiative is a positive step, but it must not only target young Nigerians,” Akinbodunse stated. “If we are serious about tackling drug abuse, political leaders—who are responsible for making and enforcing laws—must also be held accountable.”

She further suggested that legislation be enacted to mandate drug tests for politicians.

“Nigerians deserve leaders who are free from the influence of drugs,” she said. “If we can require drug tests from youth joining the NYSC or getting married, then our leaders should be held to even higher standards.”

Akinbodunse urged the NDLEA to work with the National Assembly to ensure swift passage of a law that would require drug tests for all political figures.

“A leadership that is free from drugs will foster greater public trust and ensure that accountability applies to everyone,” she added.

NANS reiterated its commitment to supporting effective initiatives to combat drug abuse, emphasizing that such efforts should be inclusive and fairly enforced across all sectors of society.