The All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign council for the upcoming Edo governorship election has called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to make drug testing mandatory for all candidates, News About Nigeria reports.
In a statement on Wednesday, Kassim Afegbua, the campaign’s media director, said the drug test is important to ensure that candidates are mentally and emotionally fit to lead.
Afegbua said that there are concerns that some candidates may be involved in the heavy use of banned substances, including alcohol.
He urged the NDLEA to prioritise testing for all candidates from major political parties, stating, “A drug test will reveal their mental state and fitness for office.”
He added that Edo State deserves a governor who embodies decency and responsibility, warning against electing people who might tarnish the state’s reputation.
“Anyone aspiring to govern Edo State should not be a regular user of marijuana. The NDLEA should step in to conduct thorough tests on all key candidates,” Afegbua said.
The APC’s candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has expressed his readiness to participate in such testing, according to Afegbua.
The media director also called on other candidates to follow suit.
“Our candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo is prepared to submit himself to any test any time he’s called upon.
“We expect similar assurances from the other candidates to ascertain their level of sanity
“It will be a big shame for residents of other states to drag our people in the mud for mistakenly voting for a candidate whose state of mind can not be guaranteed.”
Afegbua pointed out the need for a governor who can address the pressing issues in the state, including insecurity, unemployment, and poor infrastructure, with a clear and stable mind.
He concluded by urging the NDLEA to act to guarantee that the people of Edo elect a governor who can lead the state toward prosperity.
