The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made a shocking discovery at the bustling Idumota Drug Market in Lagos State, uncovering a clandestine stash of sensitive vaccines—including those for Yellow Fever, Diphtheria, Dano Anti-Tetanus, and Measles—hidden beneath a staircase.
The illicit stockpile was uncovered on Thursday during a high-stakes surveillance operation targeting unregulated drug distribution networks. According to NAFDAC, the vaccines were allegedly being smuggled out of Nigeria and supplied to neighboring West African countries, including Liberia.
In a statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the agency detailed its findings, stating:
“Yesterday at the Idumota Drug Market, NAFDAC officials discovered a stash of vaccines, including Yellow Fever, Dano Anti-Tetanus, Measles, and Diphtheria vaccines, hidden under a staircase. Preliminary investigations revealed the suspect was supplying these products to neighbouring West African countries like Liberia.”
Further investigations revealed that the premises where the vaccines were concealed were equipped with CCTV cameras, raising suspicions of a well-coordinated operation with possible high-level backing.
NAFDAC confirmed that the primary suspect has been apprehended and is currently in detention, pending further investigation.
Reacting to the bust, NAFDAC Director-General, Dr. Mojisola Adeyeye, condemned the reckless handling and illegal trade of sensitive vaccines, emphasizing that the agency will intensify its crackdown on unauthorized drug dealers.
Watch the video here:
“This discovery highlights the ongoing threat posed by unscrupulous individuals who put lives at risk by trafficking vaccines under dangerous and uncontrolled conditions. NAFDAC will not relent in its mission to safeguard public health and ensure that only safe and approved medical products circulate in Nigeria.”
NAFDAC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drug distribution activities. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating counterfeit and illegally distributed pharmaceuticals, warning that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
PIONEER NEWS 