Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has officially announced the reopening of the Onitsha Drug Market and neighbouring markets after nearly a month-long closure.
This decision was disclosed by the South-East Zonal Director of the agency, Mr. Martins Iluyomade, following a crucial meeting with Anambra State government officials and market union leaders.
“What is happening here goes beyond only Ogbogwu (drug) market; it extends to other markets around this area, and that was why we took the steps we did by closing down everywhere,” Iluyomade explained.
The closure, which affected various markets, including the surgical materials and timber markets, was part of NAFDAC’s intensified crackdown on illicit drugs.
Iluyomade revealed that the agency discovered large quantities of fake and substandard drugs across all the sealed markets, justifying the extensive operation. “We have confiscated over 50 trailers of fake and substandard drugs. Many are still in warehouses in town, and we are coming after them,” he stated.
He emphasized the link between drug circulation and national insecurity, warning that the volume of narcotics uncovered was enough to destabilize the country.
The director condemned traders who knowingly sell harmful drugs, some of which have been banned since 2007, and criticized poor storage conditions that render even genuine medicines ineffective.
“All the storage facilities are packed to the brim, locked with the biggest padlocks, and left without ventilation,” he noted, highlighting the dangerous consequences of improper drug storage.
Although the market is set to reopen on Friday, approximately 4,000 shops will remain sealed until their owners provide explanations regarding the drugs found inside.
“We have pasted notices on some shops, and those who find them must know they have been invited and must report to our office,” Iluyomade warned.
He urged market leaders to report any suspicious activities to NAFDAC to prevent another shutdown, adding, “If this happens again, we will still close the market.”
Market union leaders expressed relief at the reopening and pledged to collaborate with NAFDAC to identify traders involved in illegal drug sales.
