KINGSLEY EBERE
Ndigbo Media Forum (NMF) Worldwide has issued a warning and threatened legal action against the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) over the alleged illegal collection of funds from Ogbo ogwu medicine dealers market in Onitsha, Anambra State.
P.M.EXPRESS reports as was disclosed by the group in a press release signed by their National Coordinator, Rev. Paul Eze.
In the statement, he expressed disappointment with the Igbo leaders over their insensitivity and silence on the plight of the traders since the market was closed down over three months ago.
The NMF claimed that the funds NAFDAC was collecting from the genuine traders, who did not commit any offence were unlawful and called for transparency regarding the purpose of such collections.
The group also demanded the urgent reopening of the medicine market, which has been closed for about three months, severely impacting traders and patients in need of essential medications.
The NMF also noted that there may be individuals who may have been involved in fake drugs in the market and called on the authorities to prosecute individuals found guilty of any misconduct related to these actions while assuring that innocent traders should be allowed to continue with their legitimate business activities without undue interference.
The group questioned the motives behind the fund collection, asking whether it is for bribe or other illicit gains, and urged a thorough investigation into the matter in order to uncover the true intent behind these financial demands.
The NMF emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability and fair treatment within the pharmaceutical sector. The group indicated preparedness to take legal action if their concerns are not addressed appropriately.