Senator Kawu Sumaila Accuses Politicians of Worsening Drug Abuse in Nigeria

 

Kano South Senator, Kawu Sumaila, has accused Nigerian politicians of contributing to the country's growing drug abuse problem. He made this claim during a plenary session on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, while discussing a bill aimed at establishing the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation. The bill, sponsored by Senator Rufai Hanga (Kano Central), seeks to promote drug awareness, prevent substance abuse, and facilitate the rehabilitation of drug users.

Senator Hanga, while leading the debate on the bill, emphasized the importance of the proposed institute in coordinating efforts to combat drug abuse in Nigeria. However, Senator Sumaila argued that establishing the institute alone would not solve the issue unless politicians themselves changed their behaviors.

Sumaila suggested that all politicians running for public office should undergo mandatory drug tests, implying that many politicians are involved in drug abuse or trafficking. He called on his colleagues to swear by the Qur’an or the Bible to prove their innocence. "What do we do during our campaigns? I suggest that those who seek elective offices undergo a drug test. Some of our political leaders are into drug abuse," Sumaila said. He also pointed out that drugs are found in many political offices and homes across the country, stating, "There are drug dealers in our offices and our houses."

Despite his strong statements, Sumaila was ruled out of order by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin, who presided over the session. Jibrin stated that Sumaila's comments were not relevant to the bill under discussion.

The debate saw contributions from other senators, including Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North), Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), Salihu Mustapha (APC, Kwara Central), and Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West). Following the discussions, the bill passed its second reading and was referred to the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics for further legislative work. The committee was given four weeks to report back to the Senate.

This debate highlights the complex issue of drug abuse in Nigeria and the role politicians may play in both its proliferation and potential solutions.