The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the state government to make drug testing a mandatory requirement for all prospective civil servants during recruitment.
The motion, presented during Tuesday’s plenary session by Hon. Dauda Olalere Al-Ameen, the lawmaker representing Ibadan North-West State Constituency, emphasized the need to prevent individuals with substance abuse issues from occupying sensitive roles in the state’s public service.
The proposal, which was thoroughly debated by lawmakers, specifically targets employees in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and security. The House stressed the importance of ensuring that the workforce remains free from drug-related impairments, which could compromise judgment, efficiency, and overall service delivery.
Hon. Al-Ameen, while presenting the motion, explained, “Some candidates may have certain habits or dispositions that aren’t easily detected through standard oral interviews. Among these is the potential addiction to prohibited substances, which could impair their judgment and lead to misconduct.”
The House acknowledged Governor Seyi Makinde’s notable achievements in the education sector, particularly the recruitment of over 5,000 teachers and 600 education officers during his first term. However, lawmakers highlighted the need for additional measures to ensure that individuals entrusted with such critical roles are not struggling with drug addiction.
In its resolution, the Assembly urged the state government to work with relevant agencies to introduce drug testing as a prerequisite for recruitment across all sectors. Special attention was given to roles such as teachers, healthcare workers, and law enforcement officers, including members of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) and the Amotekun Corps.
The House also recommended that the drug tests screen for substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and tramadol, among others. Lawmakers believe that making drug testing a standard practice will enhance the integrity of the workforce, improve security, and protect the interests of the state.
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