Human Rights Lawyer Calls for Urgent Action Against NAFDAC Officials Accused of Looting in Onitsha Market
Renowned Human rights lawyer Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has passionately condemned a viral video depicting National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) officials allegedly looting shops at the Onitsha Ogbo-ogwu market in Anambra State. This distressing footage has prompted calls for immediate government investigation and accountability for the victims.
In a statement released on Saturday, Sir Ejiofor expressed his profound sadness after watching a female trader allege that NAFDAC staff had stolen her goods. “This alarming footage exposes a grave injustice that demands urgent action,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for a thorough inquiry into the actions of the agency's personnel.
Sir Ejiofor had previously criticized the indiscriminate closure of shops purportedly aimed at combating counterfeit drugs, stressing that while this fight is essential, it must be conducted through lawful and ethical means that do not jeopardize the livelihoods of innocent traders. “Unfortunately, our worst fears have now materialized,” he noted.
In his prior communications, he urged security agencies and NAFDAC to investigate the allegations against their staff. However, he lamented that, despite the seriousness of these allegations, no actions had been initiated. "The latest video evidence underscores a disturbing betrayal of public trust, capturing officials entrusted with regulatory enforcement seemingly engaging in outright looting.
"The accounts of the affected trader are both troubling and unacceptable. Reports indicate that she is currently receiving medical treatment for severe shock following the traumatic incident." Sir Ejiofor highlighted that this incident represents not just an economic assault but a direct violation of the trader's dignity and well-being.
He urged security agencies to conduct a swift, transparent, and comprehensive investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for this reprehensible act. “NAFDAC must urgently assess and provide adequate reparations for this devastating loss, ensuring that justice is not only served but felt by the victims. Justice delayed is justice denied,” he asserted.
Sir Ejiofor called for immediate disciplinary and legal measures to restore public confidence in institutions meant to protect citizens. He advocated that such misconduct has no place in a society striving for justice, peace, and economic stability, asserting that the livelihoods of hardworking citizens must be safeguarded. "If we fail to act decisively, we risk enabling a culture of impunity that will only deepen public distrust in our institutions," he concluded.