NAFDAC arraigns agent for alleged sales, importation of fake tramadol

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), yesterday, arraigned the Director of Phinifarm Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Afamefuna Udensi before a Federal High Court, Lagos, for alleged importation, sale and distribution of fake Phini tramadol 100mg with NAFDAC number belonging to Macdech pharmaceutical.
   
The suspect was arraigned before Justice Emeka Osiagor on a three-count charge. After the charges were read to him, Udensi pleaded not guilty. 
     
The prosecution counsel, Okoli Chinyere prayed the court to grant the suspect bail on health grounds. She told the court that the suspect was taken to the medical facility of the Nigerian police force after falling sick in the police custody. She asked the defence counsel to seek bail application for the suspect to enable him treat himself properly.

But Justice Osiagor said he was more disposed to written bail application and advised the defence to take a trial date to file their written bail application.
   
He stated that the accused could bring a motion for bail within the adjourned period, adding that a hearing date would be given to him,  before the adjourned date.

He, thereafter, adjourned to November 15 and ordered the defendant to be remanded in correctional centre. According to the charge, the accused, who lives at No 2, Ezinwanne Street, GRA, Onitsha, Anambra State, on or about October 26, did import fake Phini tramadol 100 grammes.
   
He was also accused of selling fake drugs in the second count, while the third count said he imported unregistered drugs. 
       
Chinyere said the offences are contrary to Section 1(c) of the counterfeit and fake drugs and unwholesome processed foods (miscellaneous provisions) Act Cap C34 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria and punishable under section 3(1)(a) of the same Act.
     
The offence of importing unregistered drugs, she said, offends Section 1(1) of Food, Drugs and Related Products (Registration Etc.) Act, Cap F33 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and punishable under Section 6(1)(a) of the same Act.