The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has once again shut down the infamous Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State. Widely regarded as a hub for Africa’s largest cartel in the manufacture of fake wines and beverages, the market has been described as a “menace to public health” by officials.
The operation was regarded as a groundbreaking one aimed at combating the circulation of counterfeit and substandard beverages in Nigeria.
In a statement sent to Africa Health Report (AHR) on Tuesday, NAFDAC revealed details of a major raid conducted on December 15, 2024. The operation, which showcased remarkable inter-agency collaboration between NAFDAC, the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police, resulted in the seizure and destruction of counterfeit products worth over five billion naira.
“This is the most decisive and audacious operation in the history of this market,” said NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye. “We are resolute in our commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that harmful products do not reach unsuspecting consumers.”
The Cemetery Market, notorious for its role in producing fake versions of popular brands such as Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Smirnoff Ice, and even non-alcoholic drinks like Fanta and Coca-Cola, has been sealed off with iron barricades. Specific zones have been locked down indefinitely, signaling a zero-tolerance approach by the authorities.
During the raid, over 240 makeshift factories were uncovered, with appalling conditions described by officials as “filthy and unsanitary.” Counterfeiters were found using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled packaging materials to manufacture adulterated products.
“These counterfeiters are endangering lives by using harmful substances unsuitable for human consumption,” Prof. Adeyeye added. “This market has become a public health disaster, and we will leave no stone unturned in dismantling this criminal network.”
The operation also revealed major warehouses stockpiling expired products, including Hollandia Yoghurt, which were allegedly being prepared for revalidation and resale. The discovery, made on January 22, 2025, underscores the scale and persistence of the counterfeit trade in Aba.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has been commended for his support of “Operation Clean Up Aba.” His administration, along with local government officials and market stakeholders, has collaborated closely with NAFDAC to facilitate the crackdown.
The Mayor of Aba South expressed hope for the market’s transformation, stating, “This is a wake-up call. The era of lawlessness in Cemetery Market is over. We are committed to ensuring it becomes a place of legitimate trade.”
NAFDAC has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving fake or substandard products to its offices. “Safeguarding the health of the nation is our top priority.”
