NAFDAC Uncovers Fake Drug Syndicate Disguised as Missionaries in Rivers State: A Critical Public Health Warning
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Rivers State has recently made a significant breakthrough in the fight against counterfeit medicines in Nigeria. During a media briefing held on Monday, May 19, in Port Harcourt, the South-South Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Mr. Chukwuma Oligbu, revealed that the agency uncovered a dangerous group posing as missionaries and caregivers. This group was distributing suspected fake drugs to unsuspecting members of the public.
This disturbing discovery has raised serious concerns about public safety, as counterfeit and unregulated medications can have devastating effects on health. In this comprehensive report, we detail the facts of the case, the specific products involved, and the vital warnings issued by NAFDAC to Nigerians across the country.
The Fake Drug Syndicate Exposed
According to Mr. Chukwuma Oligbu, the group masquerading as a religious evangelism outfit was tracked down by NAFDAC operatives at the Abuloma Community Town Hall in Rivers State. The agency was able to apprehend a member of this group while he was administering one of the suspected fake products on a member of the public. This arrest was critical in halting further distribution and initiating an in-depth investigation.
The seized products have since been evacuated to the NAFDAC office, where experts will conduct thorough laboratory tests to verify the composition and safety of the drugs.
Names and Claims of the Suspected Fake Products
Mr. Oligbu specifically named some of the products that were being distributed by this fraudulent group. These include:
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Evangelist Jenkins Supernatural Water
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Evangelist Jenkins Cleanser
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Evangelist Jenkins Eye Drop
The group falsely claimed that these products had miraculous healing powers capable of curing a wide range of ailments. They touted their products as solutions for gastrointestinal diseases and various eye conditions. Shockingly, the group misled the public by asserting that the swollen eyes experienced by some users after applying the eye drop were actually signs of the drug’s effectiveness.
This kind of misinformation is particularly dangerous as it may cause affected individuals to avoid seeking proper medical care, thereby worsening their health conditions.
Lack of Regulatory Compliance and Safety Concerns
One of the most alarming revelations from the investigation was that these products showed no compliance with basic regulatory standards. Mr. Oligbu revealed:
“These products have no lists of ingredients, no NAFDAC registration numbers, no manufacturer’s name and address, and no expiry dates.”
This lack of transparency and regulatory approval signals that the products could be counterfeit or dangerously substandard. Registered medicines are required by law to display clear information about their contents, the manufacturer, expiry dates, and valid registration numbers issued by NAFDAC. The absence of these critical details should serve as a red flag for any consumer.
Exploiting Vulnerable Communities with False Medical Claims
The group was reportedly operating under the guise of a free medical treatment mission, targeting individuals suffering from various serious health issues such as:
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Goitre
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Cancer
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Piles
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Arthritis
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Skin rashes
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Fibroids
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Cataracts
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Glaucoma
According to the NAFDAC official:
“People were deceived to buy the products. They claim to be running a free medical treatment mission for goitre, cancer, pile, arthritis, rashes, fibroids, cataracts and glaucoma. They give consultancy cards to people, they collect not less than N5,000 for each of the drugs. This is not good.”
By exploiting the desperation of sick individuals, this syndicate lured them into buying these unapproved products under false pretenses. This practice is unethical, illegal, and highly dangerous to public health.
NAFDAC’s Commitment to Justice and Public Safety
The NAFDAC South-South Zonal Director assured the public that the agency is taking strong actions to investigate and prosecute those responsible for this illegal operation. He emphasized:
“We will test the products to ascertain their composition, and ensure that justice is done on the matter.”
This commitment highlights NAFDAC’s proactive approach to protecting Nigerians from the health risks associated with counterfeit drugs. The agency remains vigilant in monitoring the market for illegal and unsafe medications.
Public Advisory: How to Protect Yourself from Fake Drugs
In light of this revelation, NAFDAC has issued stern warnings to the public. Mr. Oligbu urged Nigerians to be cautious and avoid patronizing groups or individuals who distribute unregistered products under the pretense of evangelism or free treatment missions.
He further advised:
“We caution the public to desist from patronising groups and individuals that indulge in the distribution of unregistered products in the name of evangelism or free treatment missions.”
Additionally, the agency has provided a toll-free line for reporting any suspicious activities related to fake drugs:
09097630507 (available for public complaints and intelligence sharing).
NAFDAC also encourages Nigerians to always verify the registration status of any drug before use by checking the NAFDAC registration number. This verification can be done by visiting the official NAFDAC website or contacting their offices.
Why Fake Drugs Are a Major Threat to Nigeria’s Health
Fake and counterfeit drugs pose a massive challenge not only in Rivers State but throughout Nigeria. These products can cause serious health complications, ranging from allergic reactions and toxicity to treatment failures that worsen illnesses.
The proliferation of fake medicines undermines public trust in healthcare systems and can lead to loss of lives. Hence, regulatory agencies like NAFDAC continuously fight to eliminate these dangerous products from the market.
How You Can Help Fight Fake Drugs
The public plays a crucial role in the battle against counterfeit medicines. Here are some key steps you can take to protect yourself and your community:
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Always check for NAFDAC registration numbers on any drug before purchasing or using it.
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Buy medications only from licensed pharmacies and reputable healthcare providers.
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Be skeptical of miracle cures or free treatment offers from unverified groups.
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Report suspicious products or vendors immediately to NAFDAC through their toll-free line: 09097630507.
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Spread awareness among family and friends about the dangers of fake drugs.
Conclusion
The recent discovery by NAFDAC in Rivers State exposes a disturbing trend where unscrupulous individuals exploit faith and vulnerability to distribute fake drugs. This criminal activity endangers lives and undermines public health.
NAFDAC’s swift action in tracking, apprehending, and investigating this group sends a clear message that such practices will not be tolerated. However, the fight against counterfeit drugs requires collective vigilance and cooperation from all Nigerians.
At NaijaRush, we urge our readers to remain informed, cautious, and proactive in safeguarding their health by using only approved medications and reporting illegal drug activities. Together, we can contribute to a safer, healthier Nigeria.
