Abia State Government Moves to Combat Counterfeit Goods

The Abia State Government has announced plans to intensify efforts against the production and distribution of counterfeit beverages and medications in the state.

In a recent crackdown, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) sealed off buildings in Osisioma Local Government Area, allegedly used for repackaging expired medications. The enforcement operation took place last Tuesday.

Speaking after this week's executive council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, issued a warning to those involved in the manufacture and sale of substandard products. He stressed that such activities harm public health and damage the state’s reputation.

To tackle the issue, Kanu revealed that the government will work closely with security agencies to ensure stricter enforcement against illegal product trafficking.

Additionally, the commissioner announced plans to relocate street traders in Umuahia to the Okwulaga Afara relief market. He confirmed that landowners have been compensated and that construction is already underway at the new site.