…disqualified applicants will be replaced by next-best candidates in a merit-based recruitment exercise backed by NDLEA and Governor AbdulRazaq

At least eight applicants among the 1,800 shortlisted for the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) jobs have tested positive for banned substances, automatically disqualifying them from the ongoing recruitment process. This was revealed in a statement issued on Monday by TESCOM Chairman, Bello Taoheed Abubakar.

According to the statement, the disqualified individuals tested positive for substances including benzodiazepine, tramadol, cotinine, marijuana, and amphetamine—all classified as dangerous drugs and considered harmful to human health.

The drug test, conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) with full support from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, was a critical screening phase in the recruitment process.

Abubakar emphasized that the disqualified candidates will be replaced by the next-best performing applicants from their respective local government areas, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to a fair, transparent, and merit-driven hiring process.

“A major implication of this development is that the affected individuals will be replaced by the candidates who are next to them in performance from their respective local government areas,” the TESCOM chair said.

He added that the zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse is a deliberate policy to ensure that only mentally and physically fit individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the future of Kwara’s children.

“Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has again etched his name in gold for insisting that recruitment into the teaching profession must be strictly on merit. His leadership continues to prioritize quality education and integrity in governance,” the statement added.