By Christiana Ekpa
The House of Representatives on Tuesday called for an immediate and intensified crackdown on the production and distribution of fake and expired drugs in Nigeria, following the recent discovery of an illegal drug manufacturing factory in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State.
The House resolution was moved by Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, who raised concerns over the alarming proliferation of counterfeit pharmaceuticals in the country, during plenary in Abuja on Tuesday
He highlighted that the illegal factory, which was uncovered in a remote village, was engaged in the rebranding of expired drugs by altering their expiry dates and the production of fake medications, including injectables, which were being circulated to unsuspecting Nigerians.
“The consumption of fake and substandard drugs poses severe health risks, including treatment failures, drug resistance, and even death,” Ezechi stated.
He warned that such criminal activities undermine Nigeria’s healthcare system and put millions at risk.
The House expressed deep concern that the Osisioma Ngwa incident was not an isolated case but part of a broader public health crisis, as similar counterfeit drug operations have been uncovered across the country.
The lawmakers noted that the circulation of such harmful products has contributed to Nigeria’s high mortality rate, with citizens unknowingly consuming ineffective or toxic medications.
The House strongly condemned the production and distribution of fake drugs and commended law enforcement agencies for their efforts in uncovering the Abia State operation.
It urged the Federal Government to direct the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), and other relevant agencies to intensify surveillance, inspections, and crackdowns on fake drug manufacturers and distributors nationwide.
Additionally, the House mandated its Committees on Health and Drugs and Narcotics to investigate the widespread issue of counterfeit drugs in the country.
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