NAFDAC SHUTS DOWN 250 FACTORIES PRODUCING FAKE HENNESSY, COCA-COLA, OTHERS IN ABIA

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has shut down the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years.

The agency revealed that it discovered and seized counterfeit and substandard food and beverages worth more than ₦5 billion during its recent operation, named Operation Clean Up Aba.

Cemetery Market, known as a central point for Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage network, has been infamous for manufacturing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.

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

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

During the operation, more than 240 makeshift factories were uncovered, where counterfeit products were being produced in unsanitary conditions.

Adeyeye disclosed that these factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to manufacture fake versions of well-known brands such as Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.

“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,” Adeyeye explained.

She added that over 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed on-site, with the total street value of the seized and destroyed goods estimated at ₦5 billion.

She also mentioned that the operation resulted in the discovery of three warehouses storing expired Hollandia Yoghurt, which was scheduled for revalidation on January 22.

NAFDAC praised the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, for its support during the raid.

“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,” the Director-General said.

The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office.

“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products,” Adeyeye assured all.