The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken action against two unapproved chemical and water companies in the Lafia and Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. These companies were found to be operating illegally in unhygienic environments without proper registration.
Matthew Adeoye, the State Coordinator of NAFDAC, revealed that these firms were involved in the production of falsified and adulterated agrochemicals. The agency’s Regulatory Officers raided the facilities during routine surveillance activities following intelligence reports.
“Both facilities specialised in the manufacturing of falsified and adulterated agrochemicals, and an unapproved packaged table water.
“Both companies were found operating without any approval and this illegality is a violation of NAFDAC Act CAP. F.33 LFN 2004,” he added.
The state coordinator further disclosed that some of the perpetrators have been apprehended and handed over to the police for further investigations into their activities.
He added, “The activities of these illegal manufacturers of falsified, adulterated agrochemicals have serious negative effects on farm produce.
“Such adulterated products from manufacturers like these when used, do not produce the desired result and cause economic losses, loss of livestock and resultant effects on humans.
“The packaged water facility was operating in an unhygienic condition and products were found produced with no due process being followed in the treatment procedures as outlined by NAFDAC requirements.
“And consumption of this kind of packaged water could lead to waterborne diseases of varying degrees.”
Adeoye said the facilities would remain sealed and noted that their production equipment had been confiscated by the agency.
He called on members of the public to report the activities of unregistered producers, distributors and retailers of adulterated NAFDAC-regulated products within their domain for prompt action.
The NAFDAC coordinator also advised manufacturers to comply with the agency’s regulations in registering their products to avoid litigations or closure of their business premises.