NAFDAC Seals 3,000 Shops in Lagos Drug Market Crackdown

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed more than 3,000 shops in the Idumota Open Drug Market, Lagos, as part of an ongoing enforcement operation. In a statement on X, the agency revealed that officials uncovered dangerous pharmaceutical practices, including vaccines stored in dilapidated, unventilated rooms sealed with iron sheets, posing severe health risks.  

During the raid, NAFDAC discovered large consignments of banned and unregistered drugs, including Analgin injections, diverted HIV antiretroviral drugs, and expired medicines that were being prepared for illegal revalidation. Officials also found a significant quantity of illicit pharmaceuticals, equivalent to 12 truckloads, including empty packs and cartons of expired antimalarial injections.  

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Further investigations led to the discovery of a warehouse containing Ecstasy (MDMA or Molly), various brands of Codeine Cough Syrup, and Tramadol 225. These substances were stored away from the main pharmaceutical section, raising concerns over illegal drug distribution within the market.  

NAFDAC has vowed to continue its crackdown on the circulation of unsafe and counterfeit medicines, stressing that such enforcement actions are necessary to safeguard public health. The agency has urged consumers to remain vigilant and report suspicious pharmaceutical activities.