Anambra Drug Market Leaders Reject Protest Against NAFDAC Closure, Back Crackdown on Fake Drugs

The leadership of Ogbo-Ogwu Bridgehead Drug Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, has distanced itself from a recent protest staged by some traders against the ongoing closure of their shops by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The protest, led by a group of traders calling themselves the “Concerned and Genuine Members of Ogbo-Ogwu Drug Market,” sought to challenge NAFDAC’s actions, claiming the agency’s closure of their shops has caused severe hardship and financial burdens.

The protesters, who marched through the market with placards, alleged that at least five traders had died and others were hospitalized due to depression and hunger caused by the closures. They also accused NAFDAC of demanding a hefty N2 million fee from each shop owner before reopening their businesses.

However, the leadership of Ogbo-Ogwu Bridgehead Market, under the guidance of caretaker chairman Ndubuisi Chukwuleta, has vehemently rejected the protesters’ claims. Speaking to the press, Chukwuleta clarified that the individuals behind the protest are not legitimate traders of the market. He emphasized that the market leadership fully supports NAFDAC’s efforts to rid the market of fake, counterfeit, and unapproved drugs.

The closure followed a month-long enforcement exercise by NAFDAC, aimed at sanitizing the market and removing harmful products. Chukwuleta explained that NAFDAC has already announced plans to reopen the market, but shops must undergo a proper profiling process, with traders required to clear themselves with NAFDAC before reopening. He reassured the public that the market leadership, including himself, was fully committed to the clean-up initiative and aligned with NAFDAC’s enforcement.

The market leadership also refuted the protesters’ claim that NAFDAC was demanding N2 million to reopen shops, calling the allegation false. Instead, Chukwuleta clarified that fines are imposed for specific infractions, such as the sale of unregistered or counterfeit drugs, which is in line with NAFDAC’s regulations. He noted that similar enforcement actions had been carried out in other cities like Lagos and Aba, where traders have complied without issue.

Chukwuleta also praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo and NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, for their roles in addressing the matter. He urged the public, especially residents of Onitsha, to disregard the protest and continue their lawful business activities.

In response to the controversy, NAFDAC’s Zonal Director for the South-East, Martins Iluyomade, dismissed the protesters’ accusations, reaffirming that the enforcement exercise from February 10 to March 5, 2025, was carried out according to the law. Iluyomade emphasized that all items removed from shops during the raid lacked NAFDAC approval and reiterated the agency’s commitment to eradicating fake drugs from the market.

As the situation continues to unfold, the leadership of Ogbo-Ogwu Bridgehead Market remains firm in its support for NAFDAC’s efforts to protect public health and ensure the safety of consumers.