NAFDAC Uncovers N1 Billion Fake Chemical and Food Additive Operation in Lagos
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has busted a massive illegal operation in the Alapere area of Ketu, Lagos, involving the sale of fake chemicals, expired food flavours, unapproved fertilizers, and repackaged pharmaceutical raw materials, with a street value of over ₦1 billion.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the agency confirmed the arrest of three suspects and the sealing of three warehouses stocked with hazardous and unapproved substances.
According to Dr. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence about a criminal syndicate engaged in the large-scale counterfeiting of food-related chemicals and products.
He noted that the suspects were found repackaging expired industrial chemicals for use in food and drug production — a practice he described as extremely dangerous and criminal.
Dr. Leonard Omokpariola, Director of Chemical Evaluation and Research, listed the recovered items, which included food flavourings, beef and chicken seasonings, tiger nut additives, and other hazardous materials that pose serious health risks to consumers.
