The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a resolution calling on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to fast-track its inspection process and reopen the Ogbo Ogwu market in Onitsha.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved on Tuesday by Chief Tony Moubike, representing Aguata Constituency Two. The Assembly also urged market leaders to implement stricter monitoring measures to prevent illicit activities.
Chief Moubike expressed concern over the suffering of innocent traders and apprentices due to the prolonged closure. He warned that many young apprentices, left without work, could be vulnerable to crime and antisocial behavior if the market remains shut.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the ongoing verification exercise has caused undue hardship to constituents and called for swift action.
NAFDAC had shut down the market on February 9, 2024, during a large-scale enforcement operation led by Dr. Martins Iluyomade, Director of the South East Zone. The agency seized a significant quantity of adulterated, expired, and counterfeit drugs, including antibiotics, anti-diabetics, psychoactive substances, and banned medications such as high-dose tramadol and codeine. Other unwholesome products, including food, cosmetics, and chemicals, were also confiscated.
NAFDAC has reiterated that these counterfeit products pose severe health risks, including permanent disability and death. The agency remains committed to public health and urges stakeholders to report suspicious activities. The total monetary value of the seized items will be determined upon the completion of investigations.
