The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has once again sounded the alarm over the alarming prevalence of fake and substandard products in Eziukwu Market, also known as Cemetery Market, in Aba, Abia State.
The market, notorious for its role in the production and distribution of dangerous counterfeit goods, has now been officially declared a centre for these harmful practices.
The declaration came after a major operation on Tuesday, led by the Director of NAFDAC’s South-East Zone, Mr Martins Iluyomade, who was accompanied by a team of officers.
Speaking to reporters, Iluyomade described the situation at the market as dire, likening the distribution of fake products to “weapons of mass destruction” due to the potential harm they pose to public health.
“The market has become a major source of fake and substandard goods, and despite previous crackdowns, including a significant operation in December 2023, illegal activities continue unabated,” Iluyomade said.
He expressed his frustration with the persistence of the illegal practices, especially given the market’s leadership had previously signed an agreement to cooperate with NAFDAC.
“During the last operation, the market leadership signed an undertaking with NAFDAC to identify and expose those involved in the production and sale of fake goods,” Iluyomade explained. “Yet, we find ourselves back here today with the same issues.”
The director stressed that NAFDAC would revisit the agreement with the market’s leadership, as their commitment to upholding it was now in serious question.
The operation revealed a shocking range of counterfeit products, including wines, whiskey, yogurt, carbonated drinks, chips, dry gin, and other beverages. These items were found in deplorable conditions, often produced in unsanitary environments and stored in sections where expired products were being relabelled with new dates.
“Consumers need to be very cautious and always check the products they buy,” Iluyomade warned. “The volume of expired products being revalidated is deeply troubling, and it is critical that people avoid purchasing such items.”
The raid also uncovered disturbing practices, such as the repackaging of expired goods to make them appear fresh and safe for consumption.
Iluyomade emphasized that NAFDAC is committed to bringing those responsible for these illegal activities to justice, ensuring that such practices do not continue to endanger public health.
“We will continue to identify and prosecute those behind these nefarious activities,” he said. “This is part of our broader commitment to protecting the health of Nigerians.”
In a statement following the raid, NAFDAC reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding public health through rigorous monitoring and enforcement of food and drug regulations.
The agency also called for greater vigilance among consumers, urging them to report any suspicious products or practices to NAFDAC to help curb the spread of counterfeit goods.
The news of the operation has already sparked outrage among the public, with many citizens expressing their concerns about the widespread availability of counterfeit products.
“I have seen many of these products in shops around Aba, and I always wonder if they are safe to consume,” said Chigozie Okechukwu, a local resident. “It’s very worrying to hear that some of them come from here.”
The announcement from NAFDAC is likely to stir more public debate over the continued existence of markets like Cemetery Market, which have become notorious for such activities despite repeated crackdowns.
The government agency has faced criticism for its inability to completely shut down the distribution of fake goods, despite the severity of the problem.
Many are now calling for more stringent measures, including the permanent closure of markets like Eziukwu, to send a strong message to those involved in the illegal trade.
Iluyomade’s comments reflect a growing frustration with the persistence of the counterfeit goods trade, especially in a country where consumers often face difficulties in distinguishing between genuine and fake products.
“These activities must be stopped,” he concluded. “The lives of citizens are at stake, and we cannot allow these criminals to keep putting them in danger for the sake of profit.”
As the operation continues, NAFDAC’s next steps will be closely watched by both the public and businesses, who are now on high alert regarding the presence of fake goods in the marketplace.
This latest crackdown is part of a broader effort by NAFDAC to address the rising threat of counterfeit products, which have become a major concern for consumer safety across Nigeria.
