ABA, Nigeria (CHATNEWSTV) — The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has labeled Eziukwu Market, popularly known as Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, as a major hub for the production and distribution of fake and substandard products.
Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, made the declaration Tuesday during a lengthy operation at the market, describing its activities as akin to “weapons of mass destruction.”
“Despite past crackdowns, including a significant operation in December 2023, illegal activities have continued unabated,” Iluyomade said. “It is baffling that some individuals remain recalcitrant, prioritizing profit over the lives of their fellow citizens.”
The raid uncovered a range of fake and adulterated products, including wines, whiskey, yogurt, carbonated drinks, chips, dry gin, and other beverages. Many items were being produced under unsanitary conditions or stored in areas where expired goods were re-labeled with falsified dates.
Iluyomade criticized market leaders for failing to honor a previous agreement with NAFDAC to expose those involved in the illegal trade.
“During our last operation, the market leadership signed an undertaking with NAFDAC to identify and expose perpetrators,” he said. “We will revisit that agreement, as market leaders now have serious questions to answer.”
The director expressed concern over the re-validation of expired products, calling it a “deeply troubling” practice. He urged consumers to remain vigilant about the goods they purchase to avoid health risks.
NAFDAC has pledged to intensify its efforts to curtail the activities at Eziukwu Market, emphasizing the importance of protecting public health from counterfeit and hazardous products.
