At least eight applicants shortlisted for teaching jobs under the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission have been disqualified after testing positive for banned substances, a development that has seen their slots given to other qualified candidates.
According to a statement released on Monday by TESCOM’s Press Secretary, Sam Onile, the drug tests were conducted as part of the final screening process for the 1,800 shortlisted candidates, with support from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the approval of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
TESCOM Chairman, Bello Abubakar, disclosed that the affected candidates tested positive for hard drugs, including benzodiazepine, tramadol, cotinine, marijuana, and amphetamine — substances deemed harmful to health and incompatible with the responsibilities of teaching.
“The drug test was conducted by the NDLEA with the full backing of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq,” the statement read.
“A major implication of this development is that the affected individuals will be replaced by the next best-performing candidates from their respective local government areas,” it added.
Abubakar emphasized that the move reinforces the government’s zero-tolerance policy for drug abuse, especially in education.
“We have a duty of care not to expose children to individuals struggling with drug abuse. This exercise sends an unmistakable message: the state government prioritizes safety and merit above all else,” he said.
He further praised the governor for his insistence on a transparent and merit-based recruitment process, describing him as a leader committed to giving every qualified Kwaran a fair shot.
