Onitsha – The Onitsha Drug Market is set to reopen after a month-long shutdown, NAFDAC announced. This follows a major operation targeting fake and substandard drugs.
Mr. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, shared the news after meeting with Anambra State government and market representatives. The crackdown wasn’t limited to just the Ogbogwu Drug Market. Neighboring markets, including those for surgical materials and timber, were also affected.
“This isn’t just about one market; it affects the entire area. That’s why we had to take such decisive action,” Iluyomade explained.
Massive Haul of Fake Drugs
The closures led to the discovery of a staggering amount of counterfeit drugs. Iluyomade revealed, “We’ve seized over 50 trailer loads of fake and substandard drugs. And there’s more still hidden in warehouses that we’re tracking down.”
NAFDAC is concerned about the link between illegal drugs and national security. The director warned that the sheer volume of narcotics uncovered posed a serious threat. He also condemned traders knowingly selling dangerous drugs, some of which have been banned for years. Poor storage conditions, he noted, further compromise drug quality.
“These drugs are packed tight, locked up with heavy padlocks, and left without any air circulation,” Iluyomade said, highlighting the risks of improper storage.
While the market is scheduled to reopen this Friday, around 4,000 shops will remain sealed. Owners must provide explanations to NAFDAC about the drugs found inside.
“We’ve posted notices on certain shops. If you find one on your door, you need to report to our office,” Iluyomade cautioned.
A Warning for the Future
He urged market leaders to report any suspicious activity to prevent future closures. “If this happens again, we won’t hesitate to shut the market down again,” he stated firmly.
Market union leaders expressed their relief at the reopening and promised to work with NAFDAC to identify those involved in illegal drug sales. This collaboration aims to ensure a safer drug market and protect public health
[…] Pharma Wholesalers and Distributors for Medicine Security in Nigeria”. He said closing open drug markets showed weaknesses in the pharmaceutical chain. He also sees this as a chance for reform. […]