Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years. The market, described as a hub for Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage cartel, has been producing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
During the latest operation, tagged Operation Clean Up Aba, NAFDAC uncovered and confiscated fake and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion. The agency’s Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, hailed the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market”.
The operation revealed over 240 makeshift factories producing counterfeit products under unsanitary conditions. These factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to manufacture fake versions of popular brands, including Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.
Adeyeye warned that consuming these fake products can lead to serious health issues, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even death. She urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office.
The agency commended the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for supporting the raid. With this operation, NAFDAC reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria.
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