The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) launched a significant operation in Nasarawa State, targeting the illicit trade of counterfeit rice. Acting on intelligence and complaints from legitimate rice manufacturers, NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Taskforce raided a clandestine factory and eight associated retail shops. The factory, Ninjur Ventures, was strategically concealed behind a residential building on Abacha Road in Karu, effectively masking its illegal activities. Inside, the taskforce discovered a large-scale counterfeiting operation, complete with packaging materials for popular rice brands like Royal Stallion, Big Bull, Mama’s Choice, Optimum, and Ultimate Gold. Empty sacks bearing these brand names, ready to be filled with counterfeit rice and sold to unsuspecting consumers, were found in both 25kg and 50kg sizes. The discovery underscored the sophisticated nature of the operation and the potential health risks posed to consumers.
During the raid, NAFDAC officials apprehended Ms. Gift Thomas, a worker at the factory. Thomas, however, denied any involvement in the counterfeiting operation, claiming the branded bags belonged to others and that non-employees also frequented the factory. Her attempts to deflect responsibility included the assertion that the factory had been closed since Tuesday and that no recent rice supplies had been distributed, despite evidence contradicting her claims. The factory owner, identified as Eze Dike, was conspicuously absent during the raid, further raising suspicions. In addition to the factory raid, NAFDAC sealed eight shops located on Old Karu Road that were involved in packaging and distributing the counterfeit rice. Two shop owners were arrested along with Ms. Thomas, highlighting the extent of the illicit network.
The operation, part of a nationwide crackdown directed by NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, aimed to remove counterfeit food products from circulation, particularly during the festive season. Kenneth Azikiwe, NAFDAC’s Director in the Federal Capital Territory, emphasized the agency’s zero-tolerance policy towards counterfeiting and its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of food products available to Nigerians. He highlighted the deceptive practices employed by the counterfeiters, mimicking the packaging of established brands to mislead consumers into believing they were purchasing genuine products. The seized counterfeit rice, along with previously confiscated bags from Wuse market, was estimated to have a street value of approximately N5 billion, underscoring the scale of the illegal operation and its potential economic impact.
The nationwide operation, according to Azikiwe, is ongoing and will continue to target these criminal elements who persistently endanger public health and undermine legitimate businesses. The seized bags, primarily in 25kg and 50kg sizes, amounted to approximately 1,600 bags from this particular operation alone. The fact that the factory was concealed behind a residential facility demonstrated the lengths to which these criminals would go to hide their illegal activities. Azikiwe stressed that those involved would face the full force of the law under NAFDAC regulations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of counterfeit food products in the market and the importance of robust regulatory oversight.
Azikiwe offered crucial advice to consumers to mitigate the risk of purchasing counterfeit goods. He emphasized the importance of purchasing food products from reputable stores, supermarkets, and authorized distributors. Consumers were urged to scrutinize product packaging for NAFDAC registration numbers, verifying authenticity. Checking batch information and being aware of the product’s source were also highlighted as essential steps in safeguarding against counterfeit goods. By being vigilant and informed, consumers can play a vital role in protecting themselves and their families from the potential health risks associated with consuming counterfeit food products.
The NAFDAC operation in Nasarawa State underscores the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat the pervasive problem of counterfeit food products in Nigeria. The seizure of counterfeit rice and the arrests made send a strong message to those engaging in such illicit activities. This operation also highlights the importance of consumer awareness and vigilance in identifying and avoiding counterfeit products. By working together, regulatory agencies and consumers can contribute to a safer and more secure food supply chain. The ongoing nationwide operation signifies NAFDAC’s commitment to protecting public health and upholding the integrity of the food market.
