Fake Drug Manufacturer Operating in 13 States Arrested in Ondo

The Ondo State Task Force against fake and counterfeit drugs has apprehended a fake drug manufacturer operating in 13 states across the country. The organization, known as the Brother Paul Legacy Foundation, was raided at its office located in the Cultural area, Ondo Road, Akure, the state capital, following a tip-off.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Folukemi Aladenola, disclosed that the fake drugs organization was found in possession of concoctions, which they claimed could cure a wide range of ailments that posed serious health risks to individuals.

Aladenola revealed that the Brother Paul Legacy Foundation had been active in the region since June, offering treatments for various ailments such as cancer, low sperm count, diabetes, hypertension, hepatitis, and barrenness. The organization had even asserted that it was registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

In a statement, Aladenola expressed her concern over the persistent patronage of such unauthorized and potentially harmful services, despite the government’s efforts to improve healthcare accessibility. She mentioned that the state government had eliminated registration fees in all government healthcare facilities to mitigate the impacts of fuel subsidy removal, ensuring that healthcare was more accessible and affordable.

She urged the public to utilize government-approved healthcare facilities staffed by qualified professionals, emphasizing that these facilities were stocked with quality medications at reasonable prices. Aladenola also stressed that the issue of drug shortages in these facilities had been effectively addressed.

“The era of out-of-stock syndrome is over,” Aladenola asserted. “Our facilities now have an ample supply of drugs to cater to the health needs of our citizens at affordable prices. We have directed all our facilities to procure drugs through authorized channels, and any gaps in drug availability should be reported.”

Aladenola concluded by reassuring the public that appropriate authorities would take action against the Brother Paul Legacy Foundation and its operators to ensure justice and prevent the further distribution of counterfeit drugs in the state.

The arrest of this fake drug manufacturer highlights the ongoing efforts to protect public health and safety in Ondo State and serves as a reminder for citizens to seek medical care from reputable sources.