NAFDAC Raids Lagos Trade Fair Complex, Seizes N2bn Fake Alcohol

Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) uncovered a large-scale counterfeit alcohol operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex on Tuesday, seizing products valued at over ₦2 billion and arresting two suspects. The raid by the agency's Investigation and Enforcement Directorate discovered more than 20 illegal stores concealed within makeshift parking structures on the premises, where operatives found suspects engaged in blending counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic brands, revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products.

The two arrested suspects, identified as Chibuzor Okafor and William John, were apprehended at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex along the Badagry Expressway. The facility operated in a two-storey building where officers recovered drums, filters, packaging materials, heating devices, and other equipment allegedly used in the illicit production process. Video evidence showed stacks of counterfeit energy drink cans, empty bottles of expensive wines and spirits, printed labels, bottle caps, corks, and various packaging materials stored in insanitary conditions. According to NAFDAC, the suspects obtained empty bottles of established brands, replaced their labels, and refilled them with adulterated alcoholic drinks under unhygienic conditions that posed serious health risks to consumers.

NAFDAC's Assistant Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Kunle Ojo, stated that the agency intensified enforcement operations ahead of the festive season when demand for beverages typically rises. One suspect, Chibuzor Okafor, claimed during questioning that the operation involved transferring drinks into different bottles to repackage damaged products. NAFDAC officials indicated that the agency would investigate the source of products, raw materials, and individuals financing the operation, with seized materials to be evacuated to NAFDAC's warehouse for destruction according to applicable procedures.

The agency stated that arrested individuals would face both administrative and legal action. NAFDAC's Deputy Director of Public Relations, Christiana Obiazikwor, noted that the agency routinely conducts surveillance, seizures, arrests, and destruction operations, and decided to involve journalists in this operation to demonstrate its commitment to protecting public health. NAFDAC warned the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious manufacturing, revalidation, or sales of regulated products, assuring informants that their identities would be protected. The agency reiterated that circulation of counterfeit drinks posed serious public health concerns and appealed to those involved in production and distribution to desist or face the full weight of the law.