NAFDAC destroys fake drugs worth over N1 trillion

DDM News

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit, substandard, and fake drugs worth over N1 trillion.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the destruction took place in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, as part of the agency’s intensified crackdown on fake pharmaceuticals.

For years, Nigeria has struggled with the circulation of counterfeit drugs, posing significant risks to public health and national security.

Many unsuspecting citizens have suffered severe health complications or even death due to the consumption of substandard medications.

The South-East region, particularly Anambra State, has been a hotspot for the illegal sale and distribution of fake drugs.

NAFDAC’s latest operation was a direct response to increasing concerns over the widespread availability of these dangerous substances.

As part of the crackdown, NAFDAC ordered the closure of the Onitsha Drug Market for an entire month.

During this period, traders were restricted from entering their shops while security agencies enforced strict market surveillance.

Armed military personnel barricaded the market, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with the agency’s directives.

NAFDAC officials conducted extensive searches, breaking into shops suspected of storing and selling counterfeit drugs.

Dr. Martin Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, led the operation and provided insights into the confiscated drugs.

He disclosed that several banned substances, including Analgin, Tramadol, and various pediatric medications, were among those seized and destroyed.

According to Iluyomade, these drugs were either banned by the World Health Organization (WHO) or stored under unsafe conditions.

He emphasized that the operation aimed to safeguard public health by eliminating hazardous pharmaceuticals from circulation.

“Some of these drugs are prohibited due to their harmful effects, especially on vulnerable populations like children,” Iluyomade stated.

He noted that a large quantity of the seized drugs required specific temperature controls but was stored in substandard conditions.

The confiscated drugs were transported in a 140-foot truck, underscoring the scale of illegal drug trade in the region.

“The volume of these drugs could destabilize the country,” Iluyomade warned, highlighting the link between narcotics and criminal activities.

He stressed that many of these substances contribute to rising cases of drug abuse and insecurity nationwide.

NAFDAC’s intervention was necessary to protect citizens from consuming dangerous drugs that could cause severe health complications.

Also present at the event was Mr. Mike Ozoemena, Managing Director of the Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ASMATA).

Ozoemena praised Governor Charles Soludo for his unwavering support of NAFDAC’s efforts to combat counterfeit pharmaceuticals.

He revealed that Governor Soludo had personally visited the Onitsha Drug Market during its closure to assess the situation.

According to him, the governor recognized the critical role of drug regulation in reducing crime and protecting public health.

“The governor has been actively supporting NAFDAC in its mission to rid Anambra of fake and dangerous drugs,” Ozoemena said.

He assured that the state government would continue working closely with NAFDAC to maintain strict drug regulation.

The destruction of over N1 trillion worth of counterfeit drugs marked a significant milestone in the fight against drug-related crimes.

NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that only safe and certified pharmaceuticals are available to Nigerian consumers.

The agency warned that similar operations would continue to target individuals and markets involved in drug counterfeiting.

Residents of Anambra State commended NAFDAC’s efforts, urging stricter measures to prevent the resurgence of fake drugs.

With the government’s backing, NAFDAC pledged to intensify surveillance and enforcement to protect public health nationwide.

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