The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Rivers State has uncovered a group posing as missionaries and caregivers, distributing suspected fake drugs to the public.
Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, May 19, the South-South Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Chukwuma Oligbu, said the group was caught at the Abuloma Community Town Hall. One of the members was arrested while giving one of the suspected fake products to a member of the public.
The products, which have been taken to NAFDAC’s office for investigation, include Evangelist Jenkins Supernatural Water, Evangelist Jenkins Cleanser, and Evangelist Jenkins Eye Drop. The group falsely claimed the products could treat various ailments, including stomach problems, eye diseases, cancer, and fibroids.
Oligbu noted that the eye drops had caused swollen eyes in some users — a reaction the group misleadingly claimed showed the drug was working. The products had no ingredient list, NAFDAC registration number, manufacturer details, or expiry date.
“These people misled the public into buying these drugs under the guise of offering free medical missions,” Oligbu said. “They even issued consultancy cards and charged at least N5,000 per product. This is unacceptable.”
He assured the public that NAFDAC would analyze the products and ensure legal action is taken. He also warned people to avoid unregistered drug distributors, especially those hiding behind religion or charity.
Oligbu urged the public to report suspicious activities to NAFDAC via its toll-free number: 09097630507, and to always check the registration status of products before use.
“We are committed to eliminating fake drugs in Rivers State and need the public’s support to track down offenders,” he added.