Femi Babafemi, the agency's spokesperson, shared that several state governments have taken up the NDLEA's initiative to require drug tests for appointees and employees.
He mentioned this during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday..
He said, “It’s an advocacy move and that has been going on since 2021. Quite a number of state governments are already making this a policy in their states to ensure that whoever goes for an elective position or whoever is appointed to the state government undergoes drug tests. That is going on.
He clarified that while it’s an advocacy effort, it’s not yet a law, and the agency is working to get various stakeholders on board.
He also noted that some politicians have faced legal action for their involvement with illegal drugs.
“In the last four years, from our record, about 65 barons including former public office holders had been arrested, prosecuted and convicted without mentioning anybody’s name to stigmatise them.”
Babafemi added that some of those caught and prosecuted by the agency led by Buba Marwa have held positions as local government chairpersons. He mentioned that there are still several high-profile individuals currently facing prosecution.
Furthermore, Babafemi pointed out that drug testing is not just limited to political roles; employers and universities are also incorporating drug tests into their hiring and admission processes.
Babafemi said, “This is going on not only at the level of politics or those seeking employment but also at the level of our young ones – those going into tertiary institutions – to ensure that they also undergo this test.
“We are glad that indeed this is going on around the country, in institutions – we have seen these institutions, both private and public make that a policy. All of this is to drive down the demand for illicit substances by young people.”
He said the agency's also pushing couples to do drug tests, saying traditional and religious groups are already on board..