NAFDAC and the Abia Government have launched a major crackdown on fake and expired products in Aba’s Cemetery Market. Several shops were sealed, and traders have been warned against selling counterfeit goods. Will this finally put an end to the menace, read details inside?
In a decisive move to protect public health, the Abia State Government, in collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has intensified efforts to eliminate fake and expired products in Aba’s Eziukwu Road Market, popularly known as Cemetery Market.
During an enforcement operation led by NAFDAC’s South East Zonal Director, Martins Iluyomade, several shops suspected of selling counterfeit products and altering expiry dates were sealed. Large quantities of fake and expired goods were also confiscated and destroyed.
The operation follows growing concerns over the health risks posed by substandard products, many of which have been linked to serious illnesses requiring overseas medical treatment.
Addressing traders at the market, Abia State Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Kingsley Nwokocha, issued a stern warning against the sale of fake and re-dated products, describing the practice as a danger to public health.
“The sale of fake and expired goods is a major threat to our society. It is criminal and will not be tolerated. Anyone caught engaging in this illegal business will face the full wrath of the law,” Nwokocha warned.
Adding to the concern, Aba South Local Government Mayor, Obialor Anyanwu, represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Gideon Aduka, expressed deep worry over the fraudulent activities of some traders who manufacture fake products or alter expiry dates to deceive unsuspecting buyers.
In response, the interim chairman of Eziukwu Market, Alphonsus Udeigbo, revealed that the market leadership has set up a five-man committee tasked with identifying and eliminating fake and expired products from the market.
Fake and substandard products not only put lives at risk but also damage Aba’s reputation as a major commercial hub. The collaboration between NAFDAC, the Abia State Government, and traders is a crucial step in restoring consumer confidence and ensuring public safety.
What do you think? Should harsher penalties be imposed on sellers of fake products? Drop your comments below!
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