NAFDAC Set to Reopen Sealed Drug Markets in Abia Today

NAFDAC Set to Reopen Sealed Drug Markets in Abia Today

By Fly Cable News

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) will today, February 26, lift the seal on sections of Ariaria International Market, Eziukwu Market, and Tenant Road drug markets in Abia State. These markets were previously shut down due to alleged involvement in the sale of fake and expired drugs.

However, according to government sources, any shop found guilty of such activities will remain sealed.

The decision to reopen the markets follows extensive negotiations between NAFDAC and Governor Alex Otti.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Governor Otti emphasized that those involved in the distribution of counterfeit drugs would face strict penalties.

The statement read:

“After extensive discussions with NAFDAC at the highest level, Governor Alex Chioma Otti has secured the agency’s commitment to reopen sections of Ariaria International Market, Eziukwu Market, and Tenant Road Drug Market that have been investigated and cleared of involvement in the sale of fake, expired, or adulterated drugs.”

“The reopening will be conducted by the NAFDAC Director, South-East Zone, on February 26, 2025. However, any shops found guilty of engaging in illegal drug activities will remain sealed until the culprits are brought to justice.”

The Abia State Government reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward the sale of harmful substances, pledging continued collaboration with NAFDAC to rid the state of counterfeit drugs and ensure offenders face the full weight of the law.

NAFDAC has intensified its crackdown on counterfeit drug markets across the country, recently seizing truckloads of fake pharmaceuticals from Aba, Onitsha in Anambra, and Idumota in Lagos. The agency has vowed to take decisive action against those involved in the trade of expired and adulterated products.