The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has advised the NDLEA to expand its planned drug testing initiative to include politicians and those vying for public office.
This call follows renewed advocacy by NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), who reiterated on Wednesday that the agency’s drug testing proposals, targeting corps members and prospective couples, are preventive, not punitive. Marwa made the remarks during a courtesy visit by NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja.
In a statement released Thursday, NANS Vice President for Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Akinbodunse Felicia, commended the NDLEA’s approach but warned against applying it selectively.
“If we truly want a drug-free society, then accountability must start from the top,” Akinbodunse stated. “Public office holders and political aspirants must also undergo these tests.”
She emphasised the need for legislation that would institutionalise drug tests for politicians at both federal and state levels, adding that such a move would strengthen public trust and show that no group is exempt from scrutiny.
NANS pledged its continued support for efforts to curb substance abuse but stressed the importance of fairness and inclusivity across all social and political strata.
