Victoria Mgbanwa
The Kwara State Government has disqualified eight teacher applicants who tested positive for banned substances, signaling a zero-tolerance stance against drug abuse among public servants.
The affected individuals were among 1,800 candidates shortlisted for teaching positions by the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM). Their disqualification, announced on Monday, followed routine drug screening conducted in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
TESCOM Chairman, Bello Taoheed Abubakar, revealed that the candidates tested positive for substances including benzodiazepine, tramadol, cotinine, marijuana, and amphetamine all of which are considered harmful and disqualifying for teaching roles.
Abubakar stated that “A major implication of this development is that the affected individuals will be replaced by the next most qualified candidates,”
“The goal is to send a clear message about the state government’s zero tolerance for drug abuse.”
The screening was carried out with full backing from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who has prioritized clean, merit-based recruitment across public institutions. Abubakar praised the governor’s leadership, noting that the crackdown is part of broader efforts to protect students and preserve the integrity of the educational system.
“We must ensure that those who nurture the next generation are of sound mind and character,” he added.
The disqualified candidates will now be replaced by the next best-performing applicants from their respective local government areas.
