Business activities at Ogbo-Ogwu Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, have been brought to a halt as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) continues its crackdown on counterfeit and substandard drugs.
During a market-wide raid, NAFDAC officials combed through shops and warehouses in search of fake and expired pharmaceutical products. The ABS News team, which monitored the operation, observed the thorough inspection process as officials enforced regulatory measures.
Speaking to ABS in separate interviews, NAFDAC Assistant Directors, Emeka Orajiaka and Uchenna Ezigwe, explained that the ongoing operation is part of a nationwide effort to rid drug markets of counterfeit products. They clarified that the exercise is not targeting any specific group or market but is aimed at curbing the dangerous spread of substandard drugs in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the enforcement action has left traders stranded, as they have been unable to access their shops since the raid commenced. Many business owners have expressed concerns over the disruption, though authorities maintain that the operation is necessary to protect public health.
The crackdown at Ogbo-Ogwu Market is part of a broader initiative by NAFDAC to ensure the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products across the country.
( Punch)
