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 such closure in two years, according to NAFDAC’s Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, who stated on Tuesday.
Professor Adeyeye described the recent raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market” and confirmed that NAFDAC uncovered fake and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion during the operation, which was part of “Operation Clean Up Aba.”
“This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria,” Adeyeye said.
During the operation, more than 240 makeshift factories producing counterfeit goods under unsanitary conditions were discovered. These factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to manufacture fake versions of well-known brands like Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.
“These criminal elements use unhygienic sources of water, saccharin, colouring agents, and harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involves cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes,” she explained.
Over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, with an estimated street value of ₦5 billion. Additionally, three warehouses containing expired Hollandia Yoghurt were uncovered, with plans to revalidate them on January 22.
Professor Adeyeye commended the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for supporting the raid and urged Nigerians to stay vigilant and report any suspicious products to NAFDAC.
“The unwavering support of Governor Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” Adeyeye said.
“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products,” she added.
Cemetery Market has long been notorious for the production of counterfeit alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
