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Kano Senator, Sumaila Kawu (NNPP, Kano South), has accused politicians, particularly lawmakers, of being at the forefront of encouraging drug use among the youth.
Kawu claimed that politicians not only procure drugs for young people but also encourage them to consume hard substances to carry out illegal activities in the name of politics.
Kawu made this statement while contributing to a debate on “A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, to Coordinate and Promote Drug Awareness, Prevent Substance Abuse, and Facilitate the Rehabilitation of Drug Users and for Related Matters, 2024.”
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Rufa’i Hanga (NNPP, Kano-Central), was debated on its general principles and passed for second reading on Tuesday.
According to Kawu, politicians store drugs in their homes and fund channels for regular supplies, especially during election periods.
He alleged that many of his colleagues possess hard drugs, which they keep in their constituency offices and homes.
“As I am speaking now, most of our offices in our constituencies, most of our political offices, most of our houses, when you go there, you will find that there is a mountain of drugs, and there are drug dealers in our offices and houses — all in our houses,” Kawu said.
Kawu also stated that he is aware of senior politicians who support drug dealers in their illegal trade.
He added, “I can take you to some of the political leaders who are, in many ways, contributing to or supporting drug abusers in Nigeria.
“Therefore, Mr President, we need to be serious. If we are talking, we need to understand—we are all one here. We need to fight it from our own side. Let us take the test and see who is not involved,” he added.
He then challenged his colleagues, asking, “How many of us here can swear with the Quran or the Bible that they are not supporting drug-related activities in their communities? How many of us?”
The senator also recommended that drug tests be conducted for politicians before they contest elections or assume political office.
“And, Mr President, whether we are allowing this bill to create a new agency or we are strengthening the NDLEA, we need to create a situation where, before contesting elections or taking a position in government, you must undergo a drug test.”
Kawu emphasised that the country will not achieve the objectives of the bill unless the upper chamber collaborates with relevant stakeholders to combat drug abuse.
“Mr President, there is one aspect we need to look into. Whether we create this agency or strengthen the activities of the NDLEA, we, as politicians and leaders in this country, need to do a lot.”
