The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has once again closed down the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State.
This marks the second time in two years that such an action has been taken, as confirmed by NAFDAC’s Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, in a statement on Tuesday.
She referred to this latest raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market,” adding that NAFDAC uncovered and seized counterfeit food and beverage products valued at over ₦5 billion during the operation, which was named Operation Clean Up Aba.
“This is a significant step toward protecting public health and fighting the spread of counterfeit goods in Nigeria,” Adeyeye stated.
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The operation revealed more than 240 makeshift factories producing fake products in unsanitary conditions.
These factories were found to be using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to make counterfeit versions of popular brands such as Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.
“These criminals use unsafe water sources, saccharin, artificial colorants, and other harmful chemicals that are not safe for consumption. They also use cheaper sugars and starches in place of fruits or grapes for alcoholic beverages,” Adeyeye explained.
Over 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed on-site, with the total value of the seized and destroyed items estimated at ₦5 billion.
Additionally, the operation uncovered three warehouses storing expired Hollandia Yoghurt, which was being held for revalidation on January 22.
Adeyeye thanked the Abia State Government, particularly Governor Alex Otti, for their support in the operation and encouraged Nigerians to remain alert and report any suspicious products to their local NAFDAC office.
“The continuous support from Governor Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been instrumental to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” she noted.
She concluded by reaffirming NAFDAC’s commitment to protecting public health and eliminating fake and substandard products from Nigerian markets.
The Cemetery Market has been notorious for the production of counterfeit alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food items.
