NAFDAC arrests local footballer for producing counterfeit chemicals and shuts illegal water factory in Abuja; warns public against fake and unsafe products
NAFDAC arrests local footballer for counterfeit chemicals in a major crackdown on illegal production and distribution of hazardous, unregistered chemicals in Abuja.
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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) announced the arrest of Mr. Ikechukwu Elijah, a local footballer, found operating an illegal chemical manufacturing factory in the Apo-Waru area of Abuja.
According to a statement by NAFDAC’s Deputy Director of Public Relations, Mr. Adegboyega Osiyemi, the suspect initially denied involvement but later confessed after a thorough search of the premises uncovered manufacturing equipment, including sealing machines and large chemical containers.
His younger brother was also arrested during the raid.
“Counterfeit and substandard products remain a grave public health threat in Nigeria, exposing citizens to dangerous substances,” the agency emphasized.
In a related operation, the taskforce sealed the MZEE Table Water factory in the Damangaza district for producing unhygienic packaged water under a fake and expired license.
Investigations found the factory lacked certified water sources and treatment systems.
The owner was unreachable during the raid, and no staff were present at the facility except a co-tenant who witnessed the enforcement.
Further enforcement at a shopping plaza opposite the World Trade Centre led to the confiscation of counterfeit rice, packaging materials, and sealing machines used to re-bag popular brands for illegal sale.
The street value of all items seized during the multi-location crackdown was estimated at over N60 million.
Led by Desk Officer Mr. Embugushiki Godiya and supported by the Federal Taskforce on Counterfeit and Substandard Medicines and Unwholesome Processed Foods, the operations align with directives from NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye to ensure Nigerians consume safe foods and efficacious medicines.
“We call on Nigerians to avoid patronising suspected fake products and to report suspicious items to help reduce demand,” Mr. Godiya urged.
All suspects arrested will face prosecution under the law.
Counterfeit products threaten Nigeria’s health and economy by harming consumers and undermining genuine businesses.
NAFDAC has intensified surveillance and enforcement, particularly in Abuja, a key distribution hub.
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The agency urges citizens to purchase only NAFDAC-certified products and remain vigilant to protect public health.
