The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down the popular Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years.
In its latest operation, tagged Operation Clean Up Aba, the agency uncovered and confiscated fake and substandard food and beverages valued at over ₦5 billion. The market is allegedly famous for being Africa’s hub for counterfeit wine and beverage production, has long been associated with the manufacture of fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, in a statement on Tuesday, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market.” She added, “This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria.”
According to Adeyeye, the agency discovered over 240 makeshift factories within the market, operating under unsanitary conditions. These illegal factories were reportedly manufacturing fake versions of popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Hennessy, Schnapps, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles.
“These criminal elements use unhygienic water, saccharin, colouring agents, and other harmful chemicals unfit for human consumption. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involves cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes,” Adeyeye explained.
It was also revealed that over 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed on-site, and three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation were uncovered. The total street value of the seized goods was estimated at ₦5 billion by the agency.
Adeoye also praised the Governor of Abia State, Governor Alex Otti, for the state’s support during the operation. In addition, she highlighted the roles of the Mayor of Aba South and the interim market management committee in facilitating the successful raid.
She urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to eradicating fake and substandard goods. “We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of counterfeit products” she assured.