A human rights activist and lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to ensure fair enforcement of drug regulations at the Onitsha Ogbogwu Market. Ejiofor emphasized the need for NAFDAC to conduct its duties according to established rules, without unfairly penalizing legitimate traders.
While expressing support for efforts to eliminate counterfeit drugs from the market, Ejiofor stressed the importance of impartiality and accuracy in enforcement actions. He cited concerns over reports of alleged looting and criminal activities by security operatives deployed at the Ogbogwu Market, emphasizing the need for proper profiling of offenders, their accomplices, and collaborators.
Ejiofor also highlighted the principle of justice, emphasizing that it is preferable for ten guilty persons to go free than for one innocent individual to suffer. He underscored the significance of thorough investigations before imposing punitive measures, aligning with established legal principles.
The activist called for the refinement of investigative methods, utilizing surveillance cameras to accurately identify and apprehend culprits, and ensuring that innocent traders are not unduly affected. He also urged a thorough investigation into allegations of looting and unlawful shop break-ins by security operatives, emphasizing the necessity of accountability to uphold justice.
Ejiofor concluded by lending his voice to the call for the prompt reopening of the Onitsha Drug Market, emphasizing the importance.