Four traders from Ogbo Ogwu Bridge Head Market, Onitsha, have sued NAFDAC, SON, and two officials, alleging human rights violations.
The traders—Peter Okala, Alhaji Yunusa Tanko, Prof. Samuel Anidike, and C.C. Emereonwu—filed the suit at the Federal High Court, Awka, seeking an order restraining further shop break-ins without court warrants. They also seek N100 million in damages, including N50 million for exemplary and general damages.
The applicants, represented by Chibuike Nwabueze, argue that not all traders engage in counterfeit drug sales, disputing NAFDAC’s claims.
Before the lawsuit, the traders condemned NAFDAC’s “sudden invasion” of the market, calling it “barbaric” and a rights infringement. They allege losses exceeding N200 million from the market’s 10-day closure and claim that NAFDAC seized goods valued at N500 billion during the raid.
