NAFDAC Destroys N1 Trillion Worth of Fake Drugs Confiscated from Onitsha Market

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit and substandard drugs valued at over N1 trillion in Awka, Anambra State. The destruction follows a month-long operation targeting the notorious Onitsha Drug Market, which had been shut down and secured by military personnel while NAFDAC officials conducted intensive raids in search of fake pharmaceutical products.

During the operation, shops were sealed off, and officials broke into several outlets to seize illicit drugs. NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, Dr. Martin Iluyomade, revealed that many of the confiscated drugs included banned substances such as Analgin, Tramadol, and a range of pediatric medications. He stressed that these products were stored under dangerous and unauthorized conditions, violating both national standards and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

Iluyomade stated that the crackdown was prompted by numerous public complaints over the spread of fake drugs across the South-East. According to him, the intercepted drugs—transported in a massive 140-foot truck—were supposed to be stored under controlled temperatures but were instead stockpiled in unregulated market environments. He warned that the volume and type of drugs seized could have had catastrophic effects on public health and national security, noting that many were narcotics linked to criminal activities.

Also present at the destruction site was Mr. Mike Ozoemena, Managing Director of the Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ASMATA), who highlighted the strong backing from the Anambra State Government. He commended Governor Charles Soludo for his commitment to the safety of Anambra residents, stating that the governor had visited the market during the operation and pledged continued support for NAFDAC’s fight against illegal drug trade. Ozoemena reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to collaborating with the agency to combat the spread of narcotics and reduce crime across the region.