The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a major illegal operation in the Alapere area of Ketu, Lagos, involving fake chemicals, expired food flavours, fertilisers, and repackaged raw materials.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the agency revealed that its operatives, led by the Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Martins Iluyomade, raided the premises based on credible intelligence about a criminal network posing serious risks to public health. The operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the sealing of three warehouses.
Iluyomade explained that the crackdown was part of NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the health of Nigerians. He noted that some of the confiscated chemicals were classified as raw materials either as precursors used in the manufacture of other substances or as direct ingredients in consumer products.
The agency disclosed that some of the chemicals discovered were highly dangerous and pose significant security risks. These substances are supposed to be handled only by government agencies or licensed professionals.
Additionally, expired food additives traced to a registered and licensed importation company were found at the site. NAFDAC said the company in question would be thoroughly investigated.
The Director of Chemical Evaluation and Control, Leonard Omokpariola, described the situation as alarming, particularly because some of the seized items are strictly regulated and should not be in the possession of private individuals. He urged companies to strictly adhere to NAFDAC’s guidelines for handling such sensitive materials.
The estimated value of the fake and expired products seized during the raid is said to be no less than N1 billion.
