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NAFDAC Shuts Aba Cemetery Market Again, Seizes Fake Food, Beverages Worth ₦5 Billion

NAFDAC has, yet again, raided Aba’s Cemetery Market, seizing counterfeit goods worth N5bn in efforts to curb fake products nationwide.  

In a decisive move to curb the circulation of fake and substandard products, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched Operation Clean Up Aba, sealing the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years. 

The market, infamous as a hub for Africa’s largest cartel in counterfeit wine and beverages, has been shut down indefinitely following a major raid.  

The operation, which was disclosed in a press statement by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, involved collaboration with the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police, and uncovered shocking practices by counterfeiters who turned over 240 shops into illegal factories producing fake products under appalling conditions.  

“This is the most audacious operation in the history of this market,” the agency disclosed, adding that specific zones of the market were barricaded with welded iron gates to prevent unauthorised access.  

During the operation, fake products worth over ₦5 billion were confiscated. Among the adulterated alcoholic brands found were Seaman Schnapps, Hennessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, and Chelsea London Dry Gin. Counterfeit versions of non-alcoholic drinks, including Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Hollandia Yoghurt, and Super Commando Energy Drink, were also seized. Additionally, NAFDAC uncovered fake sachet milk products, such as Peak Milk, Cowbell Milk, and Miksi, as well as adulterated chocolate drinks like Ovaltine and Cadbury.  

These products, which had been neatly packaged to deceive unsuspecting consumers, were being produced under unsanitary conditions. The counterfeiters reportedly used dirty water, recycled bottles, harmful chemicals, and cloned packaging materials.  

Adeyeye expressed grave concern over the health risks posed by these counterfeit products, saying, “NAFDAC is determined to safeguard the health of the nation. We urge the public to report any suspicious substandard products to the nearest NAFDAC office.”  

Further investigations on January 22, 2025, led to the discovery of three major warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation. These warehouses were also sealed, and their products confiscated.  

NAFDAC commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee for their unwavering support in the ongoing fight against counterfeit goods. Their cooperation, the agency noted, was instrumental in ensuring the operation’s success.  

NAFDAC reiterated the need for public vigilance and cooperation in tackling the menace of counterfeit products. “The health and safety of Nigerians remain our top priority,” the agency emphasised.

Chioma Kalu

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