The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has revealed that Eziukwu Market, also known as Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, serves as a significant hub for the production and distribution of counterfeit and substandard goods.
This revelation followed an operation led by NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, Mr. Martins Iluyomade, on Tuesday. Iluyomade described the market as a center for mass production of counterfeit products, likening the activities to “weapons of mass destruction.”
Persisting Illegal Activities
Despite previous crackdowns, including a major operation in December 2023, counterfeit production continues unabated in the market. Iluyomade expressed frustration over the persistence of these illegal activities, stating,
“It is shocking that individuals remain determined to profit at the expense of the lives of others.”
He also noted that during the previous raid, the market leaders had signed an agreement with NAFDAC, committing to expose those involved in the production and sale of fake goods. However, with illegal practices still thriving, he said the market leadership now has “serious questions to answer.”
Disturbing Discoveries
One of the operation’s alarming findings was the discovery of expired products being re-validated and relabeled with new expiry dates. These included a wide range of adulterated goods, such as wines, whiskey, yogurt, carbonated drinks, chips, and dry gin.
“These products were either produced in unsanitary conditions or stored in areas where expired items were being relabeled,” Iluyomade explained.
Consumers were urged to remain vigilant when purchasing goods to avoid health risks posed by these counterfeit items.
NAFDAC’s Commitment
In response to these findings, NAFDAC reaffirmed its dedication to prosecuting individuals involved in such illegal practices. Iluyomade concluded:
“The agency is resolute in its mission to safeguard public health and will ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.”
Additional Measures by NAFDAC
Destruction of Bioflex Infusions: NAFDAC recently destroyed 828 cartons of Bioflex infusions, supplied by Biomedical Company Limited, Ilorin, after they failed sterility tests. This followed a complaint by Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), which reported suspended particles in the products.
Action Against Illegal Drugs: The agency also flagged the sale of ZACEF-TZ Injection, an unregistered Ceftriaxone Sodium Injection brand, in Abuja.
Consumer Advice
NAFDAC continues to urge the public to report suspicious products and exercise caution when purchasing items, particularly from high-risk markets like Eziukwu. The agency remains committed to its mission of protecting consumers from substandard and potentially harmful goods.
Be the first to comment