NAFDAC DG Warns Of Life Threats Amid Crackdown On Fake Drugs

…Calls for Death Penalty for Counterfeit Drug Dealers
…NAFDAC Seizes Over N1 Trillion Worth of Substandard Pharmaceuticals

ABUJA – The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, has raised concerns about threats to her life and the safety of agency staff due to their intensified efforts in combating counterfeit drugs in Nigeria. She urged the government to enhance security measures for NAFDAC personnel as they navigate hazardous conditions while enforcing pharmaceutical regulations.

Prof. Adeyeye also advocated for capital punishment for individuals involved in the production and distribution of fake medicines, emphasizing the severe health risks posed by counterfeit pharmaceuticals.

Over N1 Trillion Worth of Fake and Expired Drugs Seized

During a press briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Prof. Adeyeye disclosed that NAFDAC’s enforcement operations had led to the confiscation of illicit drugs valued at more than N1 trillion. These crackdowns aim to eradicate substandard and counterfeit pharmaceutical products from the Nigerian market.

She revealed that 87 truckloads of illegal, expired, and substandard medical supplies had been seized. Among the confiscated products were antiretroviral drugs, condoms, and other compromised medical items, including donations from USAID and UNFPA.

This large-scale operation—regarded as the most extensive in NAFDAC’s history—targeted Nigeria’s major open drug markets, including:

Ariaria and Eziukwu Markets in Aba, Abia State
Bridge Head Market in Onitsha, Anambra State

While the estimated value of seized items stands at N1 trillion, further evaluation may indicate an even higher sum.

Threats to NAFDAC Officials: Kidnappings and Attacks

Prof. Adeyeye recounted alarming incidents where NAFDAC officials faced physical attacks and abduction attempts due to their enforcement activities.

“One of our staff members in Kano had his child kidnapped because of his work. Thankfully, the child managed to escape,” she disclosed.

She also highlighted the personal risks she faces, revealing that she has round-the-clock police security in both Abuja and Lagos. “I don’t have a personal life anymore. I can’t go anywhere without police escorts, but I accept it because we must safeguard public health,” she stated.

Carrying on the Legacy of Prof. Dora Akunyili

The threats faced by Prof. Adeyeye echo the challenges encountered by Prof. Dora Akunyili, who led NAFDAC between 2001 and 2009. Akunyili’s anti-counterfeit drug campaign was driven by the loss of her sister to fake insulin, leading her to shut down illegal drug markets. Her efforts earned her multiple death threats, including an assassination attempt in 2003.

Similarly, Prof. Adeyeye remains resolute in the fight against fake drugs despite the dangers involved. She strongly advocates for harsher penalties, including the death sentence, for counterfeit drug dealers who endanger innocent lives.

Stronger Laws Needed to Combat Fake Drugs

NAFDAC is intensifying enforcement nationwide to eliminate counterfeit pharmaceuticals and ensure public safety. Prof. Adeyeye has urged the Nigerian government to enact stricter laws that will effectively dismantle the counterfeit drug network and restore confidence in the country’s healthcare system.