The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has confirmed that 20 local government election candidates have tested positive for drug abuse.
In a statement sent to Daily News 24 on Wednesday, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, the Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics and Public Relations Officer of the NDLEA Kano State Command confirms the number while reacting to reports circulating in the media regarding the drug integrity tests conducted on aspirants for the upcoming local government elections.
According to the NDLEA, contrary to reports, clarified that while 20 candidates had indeed tested positive for drugs, the figure does not refer specifically to candidates for chairmanship positions.
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“The 20 candidates who tested positive include both those running for chairmanship and councilorship positions, and they belong to various political parties.
“Therefore, the number is not limited to any specific seat or political affiliation,” said Maigatari.
The statement emphasized that candidates come forward individually for drug tests, and their political aspirations (chairmanship or councilorship) are not specified during the screening.
“As such, we cannot determine who is contesting for chairmanship or councilorship positions during the drug test screenings,” Maigatari added.
The NDLEA urged the public to await the official release of the drug test results once the screening exercise is complete, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to transparency and accuracy in the electoral process.
“We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation as we ensure integrity in the elections,” the statement concluded.
