The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit pharmaceutical products and other unwholesome items valued at N100 billion at the Moniya dumpsite in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Speaking at the exercise held in Akinyele Local Government Area, the agency’s Director General, Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the Director of Narcotics, Yedunni Adenuga, reaffirmed NAFDAC’s commitment to safeguarding public health.

According to her, the seized items included Analgin, controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg, and other illicit products. She decried the alarming rate of fake and substandard products in the country, revealing that enforcement operations at major drug markets in Idumota, Onitsha, Ariaria, and Ezeuku exposed the proliferation of unregistered and banned substances.

“The discoveries made at these markets were shocking, with the presence of dangerous and unregulated drugs posing serious security and health risks,” she said.

Adeyeye commended the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for supporting the operation by deploying over 1,000 security personnel, including officers from the military, police, and Department of State Services.

She stated, “Today, we are witnessing the destruction of expired, falsified, controlled, unregistered, and banned medicines seized from Idumota open drug outlets. The estimated street value of these products is N100 billion.

“During the three-week operation, several suspects were apprehended. Investigations are ongoing, and those found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.”

Speaking earlier, the Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Shaba Mohammed, condemned the illegal sale of drugs in open markets, warning that it is a punishable offence under Nigerian law.

“It is unlawful to sell drugs in open markets, kiosks, or vehicles. Anyone caught engaging in such practices will be prosecuted accordingly,” he warned.

NAFDAC reiterated its resolve to rid the country of fake and substandard products, warning those involved in illicit drug trade to desist or face dire consequences.