The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has arrested more than 40 suspects and destroyed banned pharmaceutical products worth N100 billion.
The agency’s Director General, Professor Christiana Mojisola Adeyeye, revealed this during a destruction exercise at a dumpsite in Moniya, Akinyele Local Government Area.
Represented by Mrs. Yedunni Adenuga, Director of Narcotics and Control Services, Prof. Adeyeye confirmed that the banned items were seized from markets in Idumota, Onitsha, Ariara, and Ezeuku.
The confiscated products included Analgin, a banned painkiller, and controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg. She described the recent discovery of counterfeit and illegal drugs in major markets as “mind-boggling,” warning that these substances contribute to insecurity in the country.
“This operation was made possible with the support of the National Security Advisor, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, who approved the deployment of over 1,000 security personnel, including the military, police, and DSS,” she said.
The destroyed drugs consisted of expired, counterfeit, controlled, and unregistered medicines taken from open drug markets. According to NAFDAC, the estimated street value of the destroyed items stands at N100 billion.
The agency also confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that those found guilty will face legal action.
Pharm. Shaba Mohammed, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, reiterated that selling drugs in open markets is illegal and punishable under Nigerian law.
He warned that hawking medicines in vehicles, kiosks, or marketplaces poses serious risks to public health and will not be tolerated.