NAFDAC warns against social media incitement over open drug markets
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cautioned the public against incitement related to its enforcement policy on open drug markets across Nigeria.
The agency has identified misleading videos circulating on social media, featuring a social media influencer who is attempting to provoke traders at the Onitsha Bridge Head Market against the regulatory measures of the Federal Government.
NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, stated, “We alert the public and relevant security agencies to this incitement, which may amount to a breach of the Cybercrime Act.”
The agency reminded citizens that between February 9 and March 27, 2025, it executed a nationwide enforcement operation targeting three major Open Drug Markets: Idumota (Lagos), Aba (Abia), and Onitsha (Anambra).
This extensive operation led to the seizure and destruction of banned, expired, falsified, and substandard medicines and controlled substances worth over one trillion Naira. Faulty warehouses, shops, and distribution outlets in these markets were found not to comply with the Good Storage and Distribution Practice (6509) standards and were unregistered with the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), representing a clear violation of national regulations.
NAFDAC imposed various investigative charges on the offenders, as outlined by federal government regulations, including a N5,000,000 charge for selling unregistered products, which was later reduced to ₦200,000 after appeals, and a N2,000,000 charge for violations of Good Storage and Distribution Practices, also reduced following further appeals.
“These penalties are officially gazetted charges and were applied fairly across the affected markets,” the agency confirmed.
In its commitment to public health, NAFDAC emphasized the importance of ensuring that all medical products, drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and other health-related goods circulating in Nigeria are safe, effective, and of high quality.
“By enforcing compliance with regulations, the Agency aims to protect the most vulnerable, including pregnant women, children, and individuals with chronic conditions,” a spokesperson asserted. NAFDAC reassured the public of its dedication to operating within the boundaries of its legal mandate and vowed not to be intimidated by attempts to derail vital regulatory reforms.
Source: Vanguard newspaper
