The Kano Emirate has introduced a drug test as a requirement for anyone seeking to ascend a traditional throne in the emirate.

The district head of Dambatta, Mansur Adnan, disclosed this during a sensitisation programme on the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking held at his palace in Dambatta on Saturday.

He said the measure became necessary because of the harmful effects of drug abuse on individuals and society.

Mr Adnan said the harmful effects of drug abuse prompted the Kano Emirate to require prospective traditional rulers to undergo a drug test before ascending traditional thrones.

The campaign brought together district and ward heads from Dambatta Local Government Area to sensitise them to the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking.

The NDLEA zonal commander in Dambatta, Zailani Muhammad, said the agency’s main objective was to combat drug abuse and trafficking to protect lives and the future of society.

Mr Muhammad urged traditional leaders and residents to cooperate with the agency by reporting drug traffickers and locations where youths sold or consumed illicit drugs.

He said the agency remained open to receiving reports, suggestions, and complaints relating to the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

The commander said success in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking required the cooperation of the government, traditional rulers, parents, teachers, and other members of the community.

Mr Muhammad also sensitised participants to the effects of drug abuse, factors that could lead youths into drug use, and the signs parents should watch out for.

He displayed some of the commonly abused drugs among youths and explained their dangers.

On his part, the Dambatta Divisional Police Officer, SP Ibrahim Kwasarawa, said most crimes committed by youths in communities were linked to drug abuse.

Mr Kwasarawa urged parents to monitor their children and guide them towards positive behaviour. 

(NAN)