The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized 10 trucks loaded with fake, expired, and falsified drugs at the Ogbo-Ogwu Bridge Head Market in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The discovery was made during an ongoing enforcement operation, where officials uncovered several shops involved in the repackaging and revalidation of expired medicines, which were later sold to unsuspecting consumers.
Fake Drugs and Bribery Attempts Exposed
Leading the operation, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, revealed that:
- The confiscated drugs include expired, banned, substandard, and counterfeit medicines, some falsely claiming NAFDAC approval.
- Some drug dealers altered expiry dates and repackaged drugs using specialized machines.
- Over 90% of the investigated shops were found selling fake and substandard drugs.
- The agency rejected a N135 million bribe from the culprits.
Health Risks and Enforcement Action
Iluyomade warned that these drugs pose serious health risks, including death or permanent disability, stressing that NAFDAC remains committed to protecting public health.
The seized trucks have been moved to the agency’s control center for further inspection and destruction, while several arrests have been made.
Should NAFDAC shut down the entire Ogbo-Ogwu market to stop fake drug circulation? Share your thoughts.
