The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has shut down more than 400 unauthorized drug stores in Cross River State.
The Pharmacy Council also arrested five individuals involved in illegal medicine distribution to maintain the quality, safety, and efficacy of pharmaceuticals within the healthcare framework.
This information was disclosed in a statement by the Director of Enforcement for Cross River State, Pharmacist Stephen Esumobi, on Friday.
He noted that this action follows a comprehensive inspection of drug dealers’ operations throughout the state.
Esumobi emphasised the importance of regulatory adherence to protect public health and the critical role of these enforcement actions in preserving the integrity of the healthcare system.
He added that the PCN’s enforcement initiatives are vital for identifying unregistered entities that distribute medications without appropriate oversight.
During the enforcement operation, approximately 500 locations were inspected, leading to the closure of 405 establishments and the arrest of five individuals involved in illegal pharmaceutical sales.
The PCN affirmed its commitment to ensuring that Nigerians have access to safe and effective pharmaceutical products.
“A total of four hundred and five premises had been sealed, including 31 pharmacies, 174 patent medicine shops, and 200 illegal medicine shops.
“Five compliance directives were issued, while five illegal medicine dealers were arrested for breaking the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria’s seal,” Esumobi said.
Esumobi identified insufficient management of pharmaceutical products as a significant factor leading to the substandard quality of medicines within the pharmaceutical distribution chain.
“The storage conditions in most of these premises are very poor and there is a high possibility that many of the products in those premises are degraded due to exposure to harsh environmental factors like high temperature, humidity and direct sunlight,” he stressed.
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