The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has revealed that at least 20 aspirants for the Local Government elections in Kano State have tested positive for drugs, including cannabis. The announcement was made by Abubakar Ahmed, the NDLEA's Kano State commander, on Monday, September 10.

Ahmed disclosed that the candidates, primarily from the New Nigerian People's Party (NNPP), tested positive for various prohibited substances such as nicotine, cannabis, benzodiazepines, and opioids. Notably, none of the female aspirants were found to be under the influence of any drugs.

The NDLEA has pledged to continue the screening process to ensure that all candidates are free from substance abuse. Once the screening is complete, the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) will conduct its final verification of the aspirants.

KANSIEC has announced that the Local Government elections are scheduled for October 26, 2024, with 44 chairmanship positions and 484 councillor positions up for grabs across the state.