NIGERIA: NAFDAC Shuts Down Cemetery Market Again, Two Years After Initial Lock

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

For the second time in two years, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) operatives, have sealed the infamous Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State.

The agency disclosed that it uncovered confiscated fake and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion in its latest operation Clean Up Aba.

Popularly known as the home of Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage, Cemetery Market has been notorious for producing counterfeit alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and other food products.

The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, in a statement signed on Tuesday, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market.”

She said: “This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria.”

Adeyeye further revealed that fake versions of popular brands, including Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt, were being produced under highly unhygienic conditions using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles.

She explained: “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.”

The NAFDAC Director-General added that over 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed on-site, while three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation were also uncovered.

The agency also applauded the efforts of the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti for supporting the raid.

Adeyeye said: “The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba.”

NAFDAC has, however, urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious products to the nearest office, stressing its commitment to protecting public health and ridding markets of substandard goods.

“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and eliminate fake products from circulation,” Adeyeye assured.