Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has visited the Ọgbọ Ọgwụ drug market in Onitsha, as well as neighboring markets, to assess regulatory efforts aimed at curbing the sale of counterfeit and controlled pharmaceuticals. The market, known as the largest open drug hub in Africa, has been under scrutiny by federal agencies working to combat the distribution of fake and banned drugs.
During his inspection, Governor Soludo inquired about the closure of nearby markets, particularly the Plumbing Materials Market. Contrary to speculation of political motives, he confirmed that regulatory officials had discovered significant quantities of counterfeit and globally banned drugs hidden in some of the shops.
“The discoveries made by regulators were alarming. Cartons of fake and controlled substances, many prohibited worldwide, were found in these shops,” Soludo revealed. He expressed concern over how these illicit drugs, allegedly manufactured in India, evade detection at Nigeria’s ports and infiltrate local markets.
While emphasizing the need to eradicate fake and substandard pharmaceuticals, the governor urged the federal government to tighten border and port controls to prevent such products from entering the country. He also directed that the ongoing search operation be fast-tracked to allow traders conducting legitimate business at the Plumbing Materials Market to resume operations within ten days.
As part of broader efforts to streamline drug distribution in Anambra, Soludo reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing a coordinated wholesale drug center in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area. The initiative is expected to create a standardized and regulated marketplace, reducing the circulation of counterfeit drugs.
“Onitsha is Africa’s largest commercial hub, and we are committed to enhancing its status even further,” the governor declared, reaffirming his vision for a well-structured and globally competitive business environment in Anambra State.
( Trinitas newspaper)
