Investigators found over 240 makeshift factories operating unsanitarily, using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to produce counterfeit popular brands
NAFDAC Bursts 250 Factories Producing Fake Coca-Cola, Peak Milk, Hollandia Yoghurt, Other Brands in Abia
The 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.
In its recent operation, titled “Operation Clean Up Aba,” the agency uncovered and confiscated fake and substandard food and beverages valued at over ₦5 billion. Cemetery Market has been described as the hub of Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage cartel, infamous for producing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and various food products.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, described the raid in a statement as “the most decisive action in the history of the market.” She emphasized that this operation is a significant step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria.
During the operation, investigators discovered over 240 makeshift factories operating under unsanitary conditions. These factories were reportedly using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to create counterfeit versions of popular brands, including Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.
“These criminals utilize unhygienic water sources, saccharin, coloring agents, and harmful chemicals that are unsuitable for human consumption. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involves using cheaper sugars and starches instead of real fruits or grapes,” Adeyeye explained.
More than 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, with the total street value of the seized and destroyed goods estimated at ₦5 billion. The operation also uncovered three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt meant for revalidation on January 22.
NAFDAC commended the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for its support during the raid. “The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” the Director-General stated.
The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office. “We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and eliminate fake and substandard products from the markets,” Adeyeye assured the public. Read More
