The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years, uncovering counterfeit food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion.
Tagged Operation Clean Up Aba, the raid exposed over 240 makeshift factories producing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products under unsanitary conditions.
In a statement on Tuesday, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye described the operation 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.
Among the counterfeited products were popular brands such as Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt. The factories reportedly used harmful chemicals, saccharin, and contaminated water, producing substandard goods unsuitable for human consumption.
Over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, while three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation were also discovered.
The operation received critical support from the Abia State Government under Governor Alex Otti, alongside the Mayor of Aba South and the interim market management committee.
NAFDAC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious products to their nearest office, assuring the public of its commitment to safeguarding health and eliminating counterfeit goods from the market.
“The unwavering support of stakeholders has been instrumental in this success, and we are determined to rid Nigeria of fake and substandard products,” Adeyeye stated.
