By Amaechi Nnanna
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a major crackdown on illegal pharmaceutical activities, leading to the arrest of over 40 individuals and the destruction of banned products valued at a staggering N100 billion.
During a public destruction event held at the Moniya Dumpsite in Akinyele Local Government Area, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Professor Christiana Mojisola Adeyeye, revealed the scale of the operation.
The DG, who was represented by Mrs. Yedunni Adenuga, NAFDAC’s Director of Narcotics and Control Services, detailed the markets affected by this initiative, including Idumota, Onitsha, Ariaria, and Ezeukwu.
Among the seized items were dangerous, unapproved medications, including the painkiller Analgin and controlled substances like Tramadol 225mg, which illegal products have been found to fuel broader societal issues, including insecurity across the nation, according to Professor Adeyeye.
She expressed alarm at the widespread presence of counterfeit and unregistered drugs in key markets, calling it a severe and troubling issue.
Professor Adeyeye thanked the National Security Advisor (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, for his essential support in deploying over 1,000 security personnel, including military forces, police, and DSS operatives, to ensure the operation’s success.
“The destruction of these expired, counterfeit, and banned drugs from the Idumota Open Drugs Market is a significant step toward safeguarding public health. The estimated street value of the destroyed items is N100 billion,” she stated.
The operation, which lasted three weeks, also resulted in numerous arrests. Authorities are continuing their investigations, with those responsible for the illegal activities set to face prosecution.
In a statement, Pharmacist Shaba Mohammed, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, underscored the severity of the illegal drug trade. He reminded the public that selling pharmaceuticals in open markets is both unlawful and carries serious legal consequences.
“Trading drugs in open markets is a criminal offense. Similarly, hawking drugs from vehicles, kiosks, or open markets is also prohibited by law,” he emphasized.
