The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down the infamous Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years. The agency uncovered and confiscated counterfeit and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion in its latest enforcement operation, tagged Operation Clean Up Aba.
Long notorious as a hub for Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage cartel, Cemetery Market has been linked to the production of fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye 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, officials uncovered over 240 makeshift factories manufacturing counterfeit products under unsanitary conditions. Prof. Adeyeye disclosed that these factories utilized harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to produce fake versions of popular brands, including 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 revealed.
Over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, and the street value of seized goods was estimated at ₦5 billion. The operation also uncovered three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt, which were slated for fraudulent revalidation on January 22.
NAFDAC commended the Abia State Government for its critical 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,” Adeyeye noted.
The agency has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and report 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,” Prof. Adeyeye assured.
This decisive action marks a significant step in the fight against counterfeit goods and the protection of public health in Nigeria.
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