Court Fines Trader, Firms N1.5m Over Fake Drugs

​A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has convicted a trader, Elijah Chigbogu, alongside two corporate entities, Profile & Well Pharmaceutical Limited and God of Elijah Nigeria Limited, for possessing and distributing fake and unregistered pharmaceutical products.

​Justice Musa Kakaki handed down the sentence following a guilty plea entered by the defendants on a four-count charge brought forward by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

​Prosecuting counsel Anita Madu informed the court that the violations took place on or about July 28, 2025, across business addresses located in Idumota and Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos.

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​The intercepted contraband included popular medical brands and formulations, such as Calpol 200ml Suspension, Zirtek Allergy Relief, Gaviscon Double Action, Candesartan tablets, and Anusol ointment. NAFDAC stated that the defendants illegally imported, displayed for sale, and distributed these unregistered and counterfeit items in flagrant violation of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act, as well as the Food, Drugs and Related Products Act.

​Following the review of a plea bargain agreement, the presiding judge convicted all defendants on every count, ordering Chigbogu to pay a fine of N1.5 million. Regulatory authorities emphasize that the enforcement action underscores ongoing efforts to sanitise the nation’s drug distribution channels and protect public health.