Edo Guber: Okpebholo Pushes For Mandatory Drug Tests For All Candidates

By Abioye Benjamin

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called for all candidates to undergo mandatory drug tests as the Edo governorship election draws near.

According to Senator Okpebholo, such tests are crucial to determine the mental stability of the candidates.

A statement from Prince Kassim Afegbua, the Director of Media for the APC Governorship Campaign Council, urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to administer compulsory drug tests to the leading candidates in the election.

Afegbua emphasized that the NDLEA should focus on the main candidates from the major political parties. He explained that the results of these tests would help Edo voters make better decisions at the polls, ensuring they do not elect a leader who might misuse state funds for drugs or alcohol.

“We have reliable information suggesting that some top candidates are heavy users of banned substances, including alcohol. Testing them will reveal their mental state,” the statement said. “The mandatory tests will protect Edo from future embarrassment. Our state deserves better than a governor who might bring shame to its people.”

Afegbua added, “Anyone who wishes to govern Edo should not be a heavy marijuana user. Marijuana is illegal, and the NDLEA must verify the candidates’ fitness by conducting these tests. Senator Monday Okpebholo is ready to take any test whenever called upon.”

He continued, saying that other candidates should also demonstrate their willingness to undergo the tests. “It would be a disgrace if Edo residents accidentally elect someone whose mental state is questionable. That’s a risk our people can’t afford to take.”

The APC candidate reiterated that the party would continue to pressure the NDLEA and other law enforcement agencies to carry out the drug tests as the election draws near. He stated that voters deserve to know the truth about those seeking their support and should not be misled by candidates who may appear respectable in public but engage in criminal activities privately.

“With the current challenges in Edo—ranging from insecurity and unemployment to deteriorating infrastructure, healthcare, water supply, and education—our state needs a governor with a sound mind to lead us toward progress,” he concluded.