The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has sealed the Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years, uncovering fake food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion during its latest raid.
The operation, named “Operation Clean Up Aba,” targeted makeshift factories producing counterfeit alcoholic drinks, beverages, and food products under unhygienic conditions.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market.”
“This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria,” Adeyeye said in a statement on Tuesday.
During the raid, over 240 illegal factories were discovered producing counterfeit versions of popular brands such as Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.
“These criminal elements use unhygienic sources of water, saccharin, colouring agents, and harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption,” Adeyeye explained. She added that adulterated alcoholic beverages were being produced using cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes.
Over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, with the total value of the seized and destroyed goods estimated at ₦5 billion.
The operation also revealed three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt, which had been revalidated for sale.
NAFDAC praised the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for supporting the operation.
“The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” Adeyeye noted.
The agency urged Nigerians to stay vigilant and report suspicious products to NAFDAC offices nationwide.
“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products,” Adeyeye assured.
