REPS MULL BILL TO MANDATE DRUG TESTS FOR TRUCK DRIVERS

Truck drivers may be required to undergo drug tests every six months as part of efforts to tackle tanker and trailer accidents on Nigerian roads.

This is according to a bill under consideration by lawmakers of the House of Representatives, as disclosed by the lawmaker representing Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency in Anambra, Peter Uzokwe.

Speaking on Tuesday, Uzokwe, who sponsored the bill, said substance abuse remains a major contributor to road crashes involving heavy-duty vehicles.

He spoke during an interactive session with stakeholders, including Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), and Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

“It is in my bill, coming up for second and third reading, that all truck drivers should be tested for drugs at least once every six months,” he said.

“You can train a driver who is a drug addict. He may drive well, but once the substance takes control, he will no longer drive the way he was trained.

“You can see the trailer and tanker accidents we are having. These are things that can be prevented if drivers are in their right senses.”