The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed allegations of extortion made by social media influencer Very Dark Man (VDM), describing his claims as false, inciting, and potentially in breach of Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the agency condemned a viral Instagram video where VDM, surrounded by protesting traders at the Onitsha Bridge Head Market, alleged that NAFDAC officials extorted ₦700,000 from local traders during an enforcement exercise. He also threatened legal action while displaying what he claimed was a receipt of the payment.
NAFDAC, in a strongly worded rejoinder, rejected the claims, asserting that all actions taken during the market raid were lawful and based on Federal Government-gazetted penalties for regulatory violations.
“The enforcement operations were carried out in line with regulatory procedures and under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA),” said NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye.
Violations and Regulatory Action
According to the agency, recent enforcement activities across three major open drug markets revealed widespread violations of Good Storage and Distribution Practices, and notably, none of the inspected premises were registered with the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN)—a legal requirement under federal law.
NAFDAC explained that:
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An initial fine of ₦5 million was levied on those found selling unregistered pharmaceutical products but was reduced to ₦200,000 after intervention and appeals.
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Another ₦2 million charge for poor storage conditions was slashed to ₦500,000.
“These are not arbitrary charges,” the agency stated. “They are officially gazetted penalties of the Federal Government.”
Possible Legal Action
Prof. Adeyeye warned that VDM’s video amounts to public incitement and misrepresentation of a lawful regulatory action, which could undermine NAFDAC’s authority and threaten public safety.
“What this perpetrator has done is to openly tell his audience to defy the regulatory processes of NAFDAC,” she said. “This is dangerous, misleading, and potentially violates Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act.”
NAFDAC confirmed that the matter had been reported to relevant security agencies for investigation, and it would be up to legal authorities to determine if the influencer's actions merit prosecution.
Public Health Comes First
Reaffirming its mandate, NAFDAC urged the public to disregard misinformation and emphasized its ongoing efforts to ensure drug safety and public health protection.
“We remain committed to ensuring that all medical products, vaccines, and devices used in Nigeria are of good quality, safe, and effective,” said the DG. “Our work is vital in reducing maternal and child mortality, enhancing life expectancy, and protecting citizens with chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.”
