NAFDAC seeks death penalty for drug peddlers

The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has called for the introduction of the death penalty for drug peddlers, particularly those whose actions result in the death of children.

Speaking at the weekend, Adeyeye stressed the need for stricter penalties to deter the sale of harmful and substandard medications, which she described as “merchants of death” who prioritise illicit profits over human lives.

The DG explained that only severe penalties would be effective in tackling the growing menace of fake drugs. She highlighted a case involving the importation of dangerous doses of Tramadol, a powerful drug that could cause serious harm or even death. Despite the grave nature of the offense, the individual involved in the case received a minimal sentence of only five years in prison or a fine of N250,000.

Adeyeye pointed out the inadequacy of such punishments, suggesting that a fine as low as N250,000 would not discourage offenders from repeating their crimes.

“Who wouldn’t pay a fine of N250,000 and go on to commit the same offense?” she questioned.

She further stated that the current legal framework was insufficient to protect the public, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, who are often the most affected by counterfeit drugs.

She also revealed an ongoing effort with lawmakers who have promised to collaborate with the agency to push for harsher penalties for drug peddlers, aiming to curb the growing problem of counterfeit drug distribution in the country.

Adeyeye also expressed concern over the agency’s limited resources. She revealed that NAFDAC operates with a staff of around 2,000 employees, which equates to one staff member serving approximately 119,000 citizens, based on the current population of Nigeria.

With such limited manpower and funding, Adeyeye acknowledged the significant challenges NAFDAC faces in carrying out its enforcement duties effectively. “We are understaffed, and our funding is limited. I hope things will improve so we can strengthen our efforts,” Adeyeye said.