Eight shortlisted candidates for Kwara Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) jobs have failed mandatory drug tests, resulting in the loss of their positions. The candidates were replaced by the next-best applicants in the competitive recruitment process, according to a statement released on Monday.

TESCOM Chairman Bello Taoheed Abubakar stated that the eight individuals tested positive for illegal substances, including benzodiazepine, tramadol, cotinine, marijuana, and amphetamine, all deemed hazardous to human health.

The drug-testing exercise, conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), was supported by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

"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 statement said.

"The idea is to send an unmistaken message about the state government's zero tolerance for drug abuse. We have a duty of care not to expose little children to drug abuse under any circumstance.

"Again, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has etched his name in gold for again insisting that recruitment into the teaching profession should be strictly meritorious and devoid of any practices that may jeopardize quality learning in our schools. He has also proven that he is a man who is sold to giving every Kwaran a fair chance."