NAFDAC Shuts Down Cemetery Market in Aba for the Second Time, Seizes Fake Goods Worth ₦5 Billion
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has once again shut down the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years, following a major crackdown. The latest operation, dubbed Operation Clean Up Aba, led to the confiscation of counterfeit food and beverages valued at over ₦5 billion.
Cemetery Market, known as the epicenter of Africa’s largest counterfeit beverage network, has been infamous for producing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, in a statement on Tuesday, referred to the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market,” stressing that it is a significant move toward protecting public health and stopping the circulation of counterfeit goods in Nigeria.
During the operation, more than 240 makeshift factories were discovered, producing substandard products under unsanitary conditions. These factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to manufacture counterfeit versions of popular brands like Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involved the use of cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes.
Over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, with a street value of ₦5 billion. NAFDAC also uncovered three warehouses storing expired Hollandia Yoghurt, planned for revalidation on January 22.
The agency praised the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for their support in the operation. “The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been vital to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” Adeyeye said.
NAFDAC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest office. “We are committed to safeguarding the nation’s health and eliminating counterfeit products from the market,” Adeyeye concluded.
 has once again shut down the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years, following a major crackdown. The latest operation, dubbed Operation Clean Up Aba, led to the confiscation of counterfeit food and beverages valued at over ₦5 billion.){kind=link}