NAFDAC accuses Customs of withholding 26 Containers Of Tramadol

ABIOLA Seun       I             

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised alarm over customs refusal to release 26 container-load of tramadol seized at the seaports. 

Its Director General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye who lamented the development while speaking in Abuja on Sunday said that  Customs seized no fewer than 35 containers of tramadol at various ports in the country but has only handed nine containers over to the agency.

Though the Professor did not mention the period within which the containers were seized and handed over to the Agency,  she however stated that  nine out of the seized containers of tramadol  released to NAFDAC by the Customs had been destroyed by her agency.

“We are seriously working with the Customs on this and each time they seize any container, they usually invite us to come and see the containers with tramadol.

“So far, 35 containers were seized and only nine of them have been handed over to NAFDAC which we have destroyed,”

The NAFDAC boss stated that tramadol was a restricted drug but had been abused by Nigerian youths who use it without prescription.

According to Adeyeye, who is also a professor of pharmacology, the drug destroys children’s brain thereby threatening the future generation of the nation.

She lauded the present administration for placing an embargo on codeine, which she said, like tramadol, should only be given only by prescription as done in advanced country.

The Director General said the agency was more determined and committed than ever to stem the menace of illicit and fake drugs in the country.

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