The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has returned a sum of ₦5 million to its rightful owner after it was discovered during a recent operation at the Open Drug Market on Tenant Road, Aba, Abia State.
The money was found during a joint enforcement exercise led by NAFDAC, in collaboration with operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force. The operation targeted illegal drug sales and unregulated pharmaceutical practices in the market.
During the raid, a large amount of cash exactly ₦5,000,000 was recovered and kept in NAFDAC’s custody while investigations were carried out to determine its ownership.
After a thorough investigation and proper verification, NAFDAC confirmed that the money did not belong to any of the illegal drug dealers but was the lawful earnings of a Point of Sale (POS) operator, Mr. Godfrey Chukwudi, who operates within the area.
The return of the funds took place in the presence of key stakeholders, including Mr. Chima Amadi, the Chairman of the Ekumi Traders Medicine Dealers Association Union, as well as senior NAFDAC officials — Pharm. Shaba Mohammed (fsi) and Dr. Martins Iluyomade (fsi).
NAFDAC handed back the money in a formal presentation, showing its commitment to transparency, fairness, and proper accountability in its enforcement activities.
Many have praised the agency for its professionalism and for ensuring the money was returned to its rightful owner. Observers say it sends a strong message of integrity and discipline in Nigeria’s law enforcement operations.
“This is proof that our operations are not just about enforcement, but also about protecting the rights of innocent Nigerians. We are happy to return this money to Mr. Chukwudi after confirming he had no involvement in any illegal activities.”
Mr. Chukwudi, visibly relieved, expressed his deep gratitude to NAFDAC and the security agencies for handling the matter with fairness.
“I want to thank NAFDAC and everyone involved for not just seizing the money but making the effort to trace and return it. This money means a lot to me and my business,” he said.
The operation in Aba was part of NAFDAC’s wider crackdown on open drug markets across Nigeria, especially those that sell fake or unapproved medicines. Tenant Road in Aba has long been identified as one of the key spots needing regulatory attention.
