NAFDAC destroys N15m fake drugs
By Oluchi Onuoha
IN its continued efforts to eradicate fake and sub-standard products in the country, unwholesome and expired food and drug products worth over N15 million were publicly destroyed yesterday by the National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The products destroyed at Abule-Egba dumpsite were seized by the agency while some were voluntarily handed over by their companies.
A statement by the Director, Pharmaceutical Enforcement, Mr. Dioka Ejionueme, said the exercise has achieved its objective which is to prevent the release of harmful products into the country and also to mop up those already in the market.
The director, who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Garba Macdonald, said the continuation of the exercise would serve as a deterrent to importers, manufacturers and distributors of sub-standard products, adding that the long arm of the law will catch up with those involved in the illegal trade.
He said the products being destroyed included expired, unwholesome pharmaceutical and food products confiscated from manufacturers, importers and distributors of the products.
The director advised consumers to always look out for manufacturing and expire dates, manufacturers' names, full location address and NAFDAC's registration number.
He, however, said that if there is any doubt over the genuineness of a product, they should contact the nearest or any NAFDAC office immediately.
He further assured the public of the continued commitment of NAFDAC's Director General, Dr. Dora Akunyili, to safeguarding the health of the citizenry and urged those involved in fake, expired and sub-standard products to desist from the act or face the wrath of the law.
Meanwhile, the Asaba office of the agency was on Tuesday burgled with two computers vandalised and all their vital components removed.
They destroyed an IMB electric typewriter and made away with a video camera. A police source said investigations revealed that the hoodlums got into NAFDAC office located on the second floor of the Federal Secretariat, Asaba, through another office. `
