The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raided a fake factory where substandard and fake products are manufactured as it described Eziukwu Market in Abia Abia State, as a centre for the mass production and distribution of fake and substandard products, the situation the food regulatory agency of government called weapons of mass destruction.
This was disclosed in an operation led by Martins Iluyomade, Director of NAFDAC’s South-East Zone.
The Director highlighted that despite regular crackdowns, including a major operation in December 2023, the wicked and illegal activities have not stopped in the market.
He said it was baffling that individuals remained undeterred and determined to make money at the expense of the lives of their fellow citizens without minding government regulations.
He further explained that during the last operation, the leadership of the market had signed an undertaking with NAFDAC to identify and expose those involved in the production and sale of fake goods.
According to him, the agency would revisit this agreement, as market leaders now have serious questions to answer.
According to reports the raid uncovered an alarming range of fake and adulterated products, including wines, whiskey, yogurt, carbonated drinks, chips, dry gin, and other beverages.
These items were found either being produced in unsanitary conditions within the market or stored in sections where expired products were re-labelled with new dates for redistribution to unsuspecting consumers.
Iluyomade pointed out that the sheer volume of expired products being re-validated was deeply troubling.
He advised consumers to remain vigilant and cautious about the products they purchase to avoid endangering their health.
NAFDAC has however warned that those found culpable will be prosecuted as it reaffirmed its commitment on war against substandard and fake products in Nigeria as part of its broader effort to safeguard public health.
