Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Source: von.gov.ng
NAFDAC Shuts Down Aba Cemetery Market, Seizes ₦5 Billion Worth of Fake Products
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed off the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years.
In a major operation dubbed “Operation Clean Up Aba,” the agency confiscated counterfeit and substandard food and beverage products valued at over ₦5 billion. The Cemetery Market has long been identified as a hub for Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage production network.
Describing the raid as “the most decisive action in the market’s history,” NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye emphasized that it marked a critical step in protecting public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria.
More than 240 illegal makeshift factories were uncovered during the operation. These factories reportedly used unsafe practices, including unhygienic water sources, harmful coloring agents, saccharin, and chemicals unfit for human consumption. Adeyeye explained that counterfeit alcoholic drinks were made with cheaper sugars and starches rather than natural fruits or grapes.
Additionally, over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site. NAFDAC also discovered three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt intended for revalidation.
The agency commended the support of Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee for their cooperation in the successful raid.
“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products,” Adeyeye assured.
NAFDAC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to their nearest office.
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