Traders in Onitsha are facing mounting losses following the prolonged closure of six major markets by security operatives in what has been described as an aggressive crackdown on counterfeit and expired drugs.
Reports indicate that the markets have been under lockdown for over two weeks, with security personnel enforcing the closure on behalf of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The affected markets include Onitsha Drug Market, Oduwani (Power Tools and Allied) Market, Surgical Line Market, Plumbing Materials Market, Ogbogwu Fashion Line Market, Bridgehead Provision Market, and parts of the Timber Dealers Market.
Traders Express Frustration Over Business Disruptions
Several traders have voiced their frustrations over the shutdown, arguing that lawful businesses have been unfairly affected. Many criticize NAFDAC’s approach, insisting that while the fight against fake drugs is necessary, it should not come at the expense of innocent traders.
Michael Okoh, one of the affected traders, lamented the sudden closure, saying it left many struggling to survive.
“They took us by surprise. Some traders even had cash in their stores, and now they can’t access it. Many people depend on their daily sales to feed their families. I support efforts to eliminate fake drugs, but this exercise should be carried out quickly so we can resume business,” Okoh said.
A market union executive, who chose to remain anonymous, suggested that the crackdown unfairly targets Onitsha.
“We have heard that NAFDAC has extended the shutdown, but it seems Onitsha is being singled out. Other markets in Lagos and Aba are experiencing similar actions, but the intensity here is greater. To make matters worse, our market chairman is only serving in an acting capacity, so he isn’t handling the issue as aggressively as he should,” he explained.
He also alleged that security personnel were breaking into shops and confiscating goods without informing the owners.
“I have millions of naira in my shop, and I don’t even know if my goods are still intact. If someone breaks in and takes them, how would I know who did it?” he questioned.
Peter Obi, Civil Society Groups Call for Reopening of Markets
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has joined the calls for the immediate reopening of the affected markets. While condemning the sale of fake drugs, he expressed concern over the blanket closure of markets unrelated to the illicit trade.
“The entire Head Bridge market has been shut down because of suspected illegal drug sales in just one section, Ogbo Ogwu. While I support strict action against fake drugs, closing down unrelated markets—like Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, and Provision Markets—is excessive and unjustified,” Obi said.
He called on authorities to conduct their investigations transparently and with due process, ensuring that traders are present when their shops are inspected.
Similarly, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) condemned the heavy-handed approach taken in the raid. In a statement signed by Board Chairman Emeka Umeagbalasi, the group criticized NAFDAC for deploying military personnel in a civilian operation and called for compensation for affected traders.
“Innocent traders have incurred losses of at least N20 billion since February 9, 2025. We call for an immediate reopening of these markets and demand that NAFDAC and the Nigerian Army stop engaging in corrupt and unprofessional practices,” the statement read.
The group also urged Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo to intervene and push for a resolution.
Experts Call for a Balanced Approach
Speaking on the issue, Nduka Odo, a Public Affairs Analyst and Communication Scholar at Peaceland University, Enugu, emphasized the need for a more measured response.
“Fighting counterfeit drugs is important, but shutting down entire market areas seems like an overreaction. Millions of people rely on these markets for their livelihood, and this disruption is causing unnecessary suffering,” Odo said.
As the standoff continues, traders, civil society organizations, and stakeholders are urging authorities to adopt a fairer approach that targets only those involved in illicit activities while allowing legitimate businesses to resume operations.
