The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has successfully secured the commitment of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to reopen sections of Ariaria International Market, Eziukwu Market, and Tenant Road Drug Market that have been cleared of involvement in the sale and production of adulterated, expired, and fake drugs.

This decision follows extensive discussions and engagements between Governor Otti and top officials of NAFDAC, ensuring that innocent traders can resume business while culprits remain sanctioned.

The official reopening and unsealing of the cleared market sections will be carried out by the NAFDAC Director, South-East Zone, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. However, shops found guilty of dealing in fake and dangerous substances will remain sealed until legal action is taken against those responsible.

The Abia State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on the production and sale of harmful substances under the guise of business. It has pledged continuous collaboration with NAFDAC to rid the state of counterfeit drugs and unsafe consumable products.

In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the government affirmed its commitment to protecting citizens from the dangers of fake and substandard products. The administration vowed to ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law.

The move has been widely praised as a balanced approach to tackling illegal drug activities while allowing law-abiding businesses to operate freely.