The alarming revelation by the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, regarding threats to her life by dealers in fake pharmaceutical products is a serious concern that demands immediate government intervention. The federal government must not only strengthen security around her but also ensure that NAFDAC’s enforcement strategies remain fair, avoiding the indiscriminate shutdown of entire markets, which often affects both guilty and innocent traders alike.
The trade in counterfeit drugs is an insidious menace that affects all Nigerians, including the very suppliers who peddle these harmful products. The dangers of fake medications cannot be overstated—they have devastating consequences, leading to severe health complications and untimely deaths. Unlike violent criminals such as bandits, armed robbers, and kidnappers, fake drug dealers operate silently, killing their victims over time without giving them a chance to take preventive measures.
Given the grave impact of counterfeit pharmaceuticals, it is imperative that all Nigerians rally behind NAFDAC in its fight against this common enemy. The National Assembly should urgently consider the proposal put forward by Prof. Adeyeye advocating for the death penalty for those found guilty of dealing in fake drugs. Such a stringent measure could serve as a strong deterrent against this deadly trade, reinforcing the need for strict consequences for individuals and groups endangering public health.
Since assuming office, Prof. Adeyeye has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the war against fake and substandard drugs, following in the commendable footsteps of her renowned predecessor, the late Professor Dora Akunyili. Her tenure has been marked by significant crackdowns on counterfeit drug dealers, and her latest achievements further underscore her dedication. Just last week, at a State House briefing in Abuja, she disclosed that NAFDAC had seized illicit drugs worth over N1 trillion as part of an ongoing nationwide operation to rid the country of substandard pharmaceutical products.
However, her bold stance and relentless efforts have come at a personal cost. The threats to her life, as well as the safety concerns for NAFDAC staff, highlight the dangers faced by those on the front lines of this crucial battle. It is not surprising that vested interests within the counterfeit drug trade are attempting to intimidate her. This only underscores the necessity of reinforcing her security and ensuring that she receives the full support of both the government and the general public.
To effectively combat this problem, NAFDAC must also refine its enforcement approach. While shutting down markets has been a longstanding strategy, this method often punishes innocent business owners alongside the guilty parties. A more targeted approach—identifying and prosecuting offenders while protecting legitimate traders—will strengthen public trust and cooperation in the fight against fake drugs.
The war against counterfeit pharmaceuticals is one that Nigeria cannot afford to lose. It requires a collective effort from the government, law enforcement agencies, health professionals, and citizens. By safeguarding Prof. Adeyeye and her team, supporting stringent penalties for offenders, and refining enforcement tactics, Nigeria can make significant strides toward eradicating this menace and protecting the lives of its people.