The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control will today, February 26, reopen the drug markets at Ariaria International Market, Eziukwu Market, and Tenant Road in Abia State.
These markets were earlier sealed due to allegations of selling fake and expired drugs.
The decision to unseal the markets was made after negotiations between NAFDAC and Governor Alex Otti. However, the agency has warned that shops found guilty of selling fake drugs will remain sealed.
Governor Otti confirmed this in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha. The statement explained that only shops proven not to be involved in the illegal sale of fake and expired drugs would be allowed to reopen.
“The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti has after prolonged discussions and engagements with the authorities of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration at the highest level secured the commitment of the Agency to reopen/unseal all the sections of Ariaria International Market, Eziukwu Market and Tenant Road Drug Market who have been investigated and proven not to be involved in the production and selling of adulterated, expired and fake drugs including consumable products to the public,” the statement read.
It further stressed that those involved in the sale and distribution of fake drugs would face strict consequences.
“The shops found culpable in the wicked, callous and unholy dealings will remain sealed and under lock and key until the perpetrators are brought to justice or justice is taken to them,” the statement added.
Governor Otti assured that the state government would continue to support NAFDAC’s efforts to rid Abia of fake and adulterated drugs.
“The Abia State Government frowns at the practice of producing or selling poisonous substances to the citizens in the name of business and will continue to partner and support NAFDAC until the State is completely cleared of fake, adulterated and expired drugs including other consumable products and the culprits arrested to face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
NAFDAC has recently intensified its crackdown on fake drug markets across the country, raiding drug hubs in Aba, Onitsha in Anambra, and Idumota in Lagos. Several truckloads of fake and adulterated drugs have been confiscated.
The agency has vowed to continue its fight against those dealing in fake and expired products, ensuring public health and safety are protected.
