IPOB Lawyer Ejiofor Demands Probe Into Alleged Looting Of Trader’s Shop By NAFDAC Officials In Onitsha
Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, lawyer for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has demanded an immediate investigation into allegations that officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) looted a female trader’s shop during a regulatory operation at Ogbo Ogwu market in Onitsha, Anambra State.
A viral video circulating on social media shows the devastated trader accusing NAFDAC officials of ransacking her store. She said they did this under the guise of enforcing regulations against counterfeit drugs. The footage has sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning the alleged misconduct.
Ejiofor, in a statement released on Saturday, described the alleged actions as a grave injustice that demands swift intervention from relevant authorities.
“This alarming footage exposes a serious abuse of power. While the fight against counterfeit drugs is crucial, it must not come at the expense of innocent traders’ livelihoods,” Ejiofor stated (paraphrased).
He warned that if the allegations are true, they represent a serious violation of ethical enforcement standards and a betrayal of public trust.
“Our worst fears have materialized. What began as indiscriminate shop closures has now escalated into outright looting. This cannot be tolerated in a just society,” he added (paraphrased).
Reports indicate that the affected trader suffered severe shock due to the traumatic experience and is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Expressing deep concern for her well-being, Ejiofor stressed that this was not just an economic assault. He said it was also an attack on the trader’s dignity and mental health.
He called on security agencies to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation to identify and hold those responsible accountable.
“NAFDAC must urgently assess this situation and provide appropriate reparations to the victim. Justice delayed is justice denied,” he said (paraphrased).
Ejiofor also urged disciplinary and legal measures against any officials found guilty, warning that failure to act decisively would encourage a culture of impunity.
“The livelihoods of hardworking citizens must be protected. If those entrusted with enforcing the law engage in lawlessness, public confidence in our institutions will continue to erode,” he cautioned (paraphrased).
Public reaction has been swift with many Nigerians expressing outrage. They also demand institutional reforms within NAFDAC and other regulatory agencies to enhance accountability.
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As of the time of this report, NAFDAC has not issued an official response, but pressure is mounting on the agency to address the allegations transparently and implement corrective measures.
