The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made a shocking discovery at the Onitsha Bridgehead Drug Market, where prohibited drugs were concealed inside plumbing materials shops.
During the raid, NAFDAC officials seized two trailer loads of unregistered narcotics, banned tramadol, and counterfeit medicines hidden within non-drug sections of the market. While traders accused the agency of targeting unrelated businesses, intelligence reports had led the enforcement team to search these areas, uncovering a massive stockpile of illicit pharmaceuticals.
The operation was carried out under tight security following a violent incident three years ago when NAFDAC officials and police officers were attacked while attempting a similar raid. The agency credited its success to the support of the National Security Adviser (NSA), stating that without such backing, the exercise would have faced serious resistance.
So far, the ongoing crackdown has resulted in the removal of fake and substandard drugs worth billions of naira. Authorities revealed that the market serves as a hub for repackaging and revalidating expired medicines under false claims before distributing them to unsuspecting consumers. Since the operation began over a week ago, at least 10 fully loaded 40-foot trucks filled with adulterated drugs—some fraudulently bearing NAFDAC approval—have been seized.
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NAFDAC has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying enforcement operations aimed at eliminating the circulation of fake, substandard, and dangerous drugs across the country. The agency emphasized that such measures are crucial in safeguarding public health and ensuring that only genuine and approved pharmaceuticals reach consumers. With ongoing surveillance, strategic intelligence gathering, and collaborative efforts with relevant security agencies, NAFDAC has pledged to leave no stone unturned in its fight against the distribution of illicit drugs, thereby protecting lives and strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.
