The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Saturday destroyed counterfeit drugs and other illicit products valued at approximately N100 billion at the Moniya dump site in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking at the destruction site in Akinyele Local Government Area, NAFDAC’s Director General, Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasized the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health.
Adeyeye, represented by the Director of Narcotics, Yedunni Adenuga, disclosed that the destroyed items included banned drugs such as Analgin and controlled substances like Tramadol 225mg.
She revealed that the confiscated products were seized during enforcement operations across major drug markets in Nigeria, including Idumota (Lagos), Onitsha (Anambra), Ariaria (Abia), and Ezeukwu (Abia).
“The recent discovery of counterfeit and unregistered drugs in these markets is alarming,” Adeyeye stated. “These harmful substances contribute to the insecurity in our country and pose serious health risks to unsuspecting consumers.”
She acknowledged the support of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, who approved the deployment of over 1,000 security personnel, including military, police, and Department of State Services (DSS) operatives, to assist in the enforcement exercise.
NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Shaba Mohammed, condemned the sale of drugs in open markets, describing it as illegal and punishable under Nigerian law.
“It is a crime to sell drugs in open markets, kiosks, or vehicles,” Mohammed warned. “The agency will continue to crack down on those violating drug distribution regulations.”
Several suspects were reportedly arrested during the operation, and investigations are ongoing to ensure appropriate legal actions are taken against those found guilty.
