NAFDAC Condemns Attack on Staff During Enforcement Operation in Lagos
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concerns over an attack on its staff members during a recent enforcement operation in Lagos. The incident occurred at the Trade Fair Complex on Thursday, October 30, and involved a violent confrontation between NAFDAC officials and individuals who were allegedly hired to disrupt the operation.
Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, addressed the situation through the agency’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Dr. Martins Iluyomade. According to Adeyeye, the attack was orchestrated by some market owners who had hired mercenaries armed with dangerous weapons. These individuals reportedly caused chaos after NAFDAC officials discovered and confiscated several cartons of counterfeit, banned, and unwholesome products.
The confiscation was carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Cap. C.34 LFN 2004. The operation initially proceeded without any issues, but the situation escalated when the mercenaries arrived on the scene, creating disturbances and demanding the identity of the director or chairman of the Federal Task Force.
Escalation of Violence and Damage
Dr. Iluyomade highlighted that the attackers vandalized approximately ten operational vehicles belonging to NAFDAC and other security agencies. The total value of the damaged vehicles exceeded 25 billion naira. The violence reached a peak as the attackers attempted to interfere with the ongoing enforcement activities.
This incident is not the first of its kind. Adeyeye recalled a similar attack on NAFDAC personnel in 2022, which led to one of the officers resigning due to the severity of the assault. She emphasized that such attacks are part of the risks faced by NAFDAC officials daily in their mission to protect the health of Nigerians.
According to Adeyeye, the agency had received intelligence reports about the potential attack two months prior to the incident. Despite this, the operation proceeded as planned, with the aim of curbing the circulation of fake drugs and substandard products in the country.
Collaboration with Security Agencies
Despite the challenges posed by the attack, Adeyeye commended the police and military for their professional collaboration and support during the raid. Their intervention helped prevent what could have been a more severe outcome.
She also revealed that NAFDAC managed to evacuate four trucks of seized products from the market. However, due to the intensity of the attack, the agency was forced to abandon others. This highlights the significant obstacles faced by the agency in carrying out its mandate.
Commitment to Eradicate Fake Products
Adeyeye reaffirmed NAFDAC’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the circulation of fake drugs and substandard products in Nigeria. She emphasized that the agency would not be intimidated by threats and would continue its efforts to ensure public safety.
The recent attack underscores the dangers faced by enforcement agencies in their fight against illegal and harmful products. It also highlights the need for stronger measures to protect both the officials and the public from the consequences of such activities.