By Sunny A. David, Awka
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reopened the Ọgbọ Ọgwụ (Head Bridge) market in Onitsha, Anambra State, following a three-week closure due to the widespread sale of substandard and counterfeit drugs.
The reopening, announced by NAFDAC’s South-East Director, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, comes after an agreement with market leaders to cease such practices.
The agreement followed intervention from Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and a meeting involving government officials, market leaders, and NAFDAC representatives.
During the closure, NAFDAC seized drugs banned since 2007 and sealed over 4,000 shops for various violations.
While the market is now open, NAFDAC will maintain continuous surveillance. Sealed shops will only be reopened after thorough vetting.
Anambra State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, praised NAFDAC’s efforts and urged traders to uphold their commitment to selling only legitimate products.
The Market Chairman Mr. Ndubuisi Chukwulota urged traders to cooperate fully with the agency to ensure a smooth resumption of business.
CAPTION:
Zonal- East Director, NAFDAC, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, Commissioner for Health, Anambra State, Dr. Afam Obidike and Market leaders at the reopening of Ogbo Ogwu, Head Bridge Market, Onitsha.
