IHRC Urges Calm as NAFDAC Shuts Onitsha Drug Market

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) has voiced deep concern over the recent closure of the Onitsha pharmaceutical market in Anambra State by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), calling for calm and dialogue amid growing public unrest.

The shutdown was part of NAFDAC’s statewide enforcement drive from February 9 to March 27, 2025, targeting three major open drug markets in Nigeria: Idumota (Lagos), Ariaria (Abia), and Onitsha (Anambra).

According to NAFDAC:

• Nearly ₦1 trillion worth of fake, substandard, and expired drugs were seized and destroyed.

• Affected warehouses were not registered with the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN).

• Many outlets violated Good Storage and Distribution Practice (GSDP) guidelines.

While the agency said its actions were in compliance with federal regulations, many traders in Anambra expressed fear and frustration over the sudden crackdown.

Penalties Revised After Backlash

• The original ₦5 million fine for selling unregistered products was reduced to ₦200,000 after appeals.

• GSDP-related fines were adjusted from ₦2 million to ₦500,000 per operator.

Despite this, emotional backlash from affected traders has raised fears of economic displacement and civil unrest.

In a formal statement, Amb. Dr. Duru Hezekiah, IHRC Country Representative, urged restraint and calm from all sides. He acknowledged NAFDAC’s mandate to safeguard public health but emphasized that such enforcement should be guided by:

• Due process

• Fairness

• Human dignity

“We call on NAFDAC to engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including market unions, civil society groups, and local authorities,” said Amb. Duru.
“Enforcement should favor compliance education and corrective action over punitive closures.”

Key Recommendations by the IHRC:

• Immediate intervention by the Federal Government

• Dialogue-based resolution involving local stakeholders

• Creation of an independent review panel to evaluate the shutdown

• Emphasis on regulatory justice grounded in human rights

The Onitsha pharmaceutical hub supports thousands of jobs and serves millions in southeastern Nigeria. Its closure raises questions about the balance between public health enforcement and economic survival.

While NAFDAC’s efforts to sanitize Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector are commendable, the IHRC’s call serves as a reminder: public health policies must also protect livelihoods and uphold human dignity.