Abia State Government And Traders Support NAFDAC’s Crackdown On Counterfeit Products

The Abia State Government has pledged to collaborate with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to eliminate counterfeit and expired products from the Eziukwu Road Market in Aba, commonly known as Cemetery Market.

The Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Kingsley Nwokocha, made this declaration during a visit to Eziukwu Market, where he cautioned traders about the dangers and legal consequences of selling fake goods or altering expiry dates on products.

Highlighting the severe threat counterfeit products pose to public health, the commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring consumer safety and market integrity.

Additionally, the Mayor of Aba South Local Government Area (LGA), Obialor Anyanwu, represented by the LGA Secretary, Mr. Gideon Aduka, voiced concerns over the activities of certain traders engaged in producing fake products or fraudulently modifying expiry dates. He commended NAFDAC for its persistent efforts to curb these illegal practices.

During the event, Eziukwu Market’s interim chairman, Alphonsus Udeigbo, informed the commissioner that his administration had established a five-member task force dedicated to combating the sale of counterfeit, expired, and re-dated goods. Udeigbo also expressed appreciation to both NAFDAC and the Abia State Government for their proactive interventions.

Leading the enforcement operation, the South East Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Mr. Martins Iluyomade, emphasized that many people suffer from life-threatening diseases due to the consumption of substandard products. He noted that such health risks often lead individuals to seek medical treatment abroad.

As part of the crackdown, NAFDAC sealed off several shops suspected of being involved in the production and distribution of fake and expired products. Additionally, confiscated counterfeit goods were destroyed in line with the agency’s regulatory protocols.

The joint efforts of NAFDAC, the Abia State Government, and local traders mark a significant step towards ensuring public safety and enhancing the credibility of marketplaces within the region. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

Meta Description: Abia State Government partners with NAFDAC to eradicate counterfeit and expired products in Eziukwu Market, Aba. Traders support enforcement measures to safeguard public health.