Market Shutdown and Counterfeit Drug Raid
The popular Ogbo-Ogwu Drug Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, has been closed since February 15, 2025. The closure followed a raid by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), which seized and destroyed over 10 trucks of counterfeit drugs valued at more than N1 trillion.
Traders Allege N700,000 Levy
Traders at the market have suffered severe economic hardship since the closure. They allege that NAFDAC imposed a N700,000 levy on each shop owner before granting access to their shops. Over 1,000 traders reportedly paid the fee. However, NAFDAC denies these claims and insists the market has been reopened.
Legal Action Taken by Traders
The affected traders, led by the United Nigeria Group, filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Awka. The suit demands the immediate reopening of the market and protection of their fundamental rights. The case, FHC/AWK/CD/53/2025, lists NAFDAC and other security agencies as respondents. The court will continue hearing the case on May 29, 2025.
Political and Human Rights Reactions
The situation has drawn strong criticism from lawmakers and rights groups. Afam Ogene, Labour Party caucus leader in the House of Representatives, condemned the alleged levy as unjust and harmful to honest businesses. Human rights organizations such as the Human Rights Liberty Access and Peace Defenders’ Foundation (HURIDE) and Campaign for Democracy have described the levy as extortion and ethnic victimization.
Calls for Investigation and Transparency
Rights groups have urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate NAFDAC’s financial dealings. They also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a special panel to probe NAFDAC’s operations and improve transparency.
The prolonged closure of the Ogbo-Ogwu Market and ongoing legal battle underscore growing tensions around drug regulation and traders’ rights in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.
