NAFDAC Shuts Rice Mills, Seizes Fake Branded Bags In Nasarawa
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Tuesday sealed four rice milling companies in the Autabalefi area, Masaka main market and motor park in Nasarawa State for counterfeiting.
During the operation, the agency confiscated empty branded rice bags bearing the names of well-known companies such as Royal Stallion, Tomato, Big Bull, and BUA Rice.
NAFDAC also seized sealing machines, sewing threads, packing bowls and two 50kg bags of rice from the premises.
In a related move, NAFDAC placed the Nigerian Brewery depot in Masaka on hold over poor storage conditions, noting that a large quantity of drinks was being kept in the open sun, making them unfit for consumption.
Benedicta Obaseki, Deputy Director of NAFDAC’s Greater FCT Office in Mararaba, said the agency acted following complaints from concerned citizens.
“The raid became necessary to prevent the circulation of substandard rice as Muslims prepare for Eid-el-Kabir,” she stated.
She said the action was taken on behalf of the Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, to uphold food safety standards and protect public health.
“These counterfeit rice products will be destroyed,” she added.
NAFDAC warned that raids will continue, with sanctions for violators. Obaseki urged Nigerians to only buy rice from reputable sources and check for NAFDAC registration numbers.
Meanwhile, Purity Obadiah, a manager of one of the affected companies, denied wrongdoing, saying they rejected branded bags last December.
Another operator, Maris Kano, also denied counterfeiting, claiming she used unbranded bags bought from the market.
(NAN)
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
