The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intensified its crackdown on counterfeit pharmaceuticals, destroying illicit products worth an estimated N100 billion at the Moniya dump site in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The agency’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the Director of Narcotics, Yedunni Adenuga, led the destruction exercise at the dumpsites in Akinyele Local Government Area. The seized products included banned substances such as Analgin and high-dose Tramadol 225mg, among other falsified and unregistered drugs.
Adeyeye reaffirmed NAFDAC’s unwavering commitment to protecting public health by ensuring the safety and efficacy of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water, and beverages. She described the recent discovery of counterfeit drugs in major markets as alarming and a serious threat to national security.
“Our enforcement operations at Idumota, Onitsha, Ariaria, and Ezeuku drug markets exposed the shocking presence of unregistered and highly dangerous substances,” she said. “These illicit products fuel insecurity and endanger countless lives.”
She credited the success of the large-scale operation to the support of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, who authorized the deployment of over 1,000 security personnel, including military, police, and Department of State Services (DSS) operatives.
“This exercise has led to the removal and destruction of massive quantities of expired, falsified, controlled, and banned medicines from circulation,” Adeyeye added. “Several suspects were arrested, and investigations are ongoing to ensure those responsible face appropriate sanctions.”
Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Shaba Mohammed, further emphasized the illegality of selling pharmaceuticals in open markets, warning that such practices will not be tolerated.
“Selling drugs in unauthorized locations, including kiosks, vehicles, and street markets, is a criminal offense punishable by law,” he stated.
With this latest raid, NAFDAC continues to reinforce its commitment to wiping out counterfeit pharmaceuticals and ensuring Nigerians have access to safe and authentic medical products.
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