Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has defended the recent closure of markets in the state, revealing that regulatory agencies uncovered disturbing volumes of counterfeit and banned drugs. Addressing concerns about the economic impact, Soludo explained that while drug enforcement is a federal responsibility, his visit to the affected markets was an intervention to ensure fairness and transparency.
According to the governor, while the initial closure targeted a major drug market, security operatives extended the action to nearby markets after discovering alarming quantities of controlled and globally banned substances hidden within the plumbing materials market. He dismissed political narratives surrounding the closures, emphasizing the urgent need to sanitize the system and protect public health. However, he assured that expedited inspections were underway, allowing traders in the plumbing market to resume operations within ten days.
Soludo further highlighted Anambra’s ongoing efforts to establish a regulated wholesale drug center in Oba, which will accommodate a modernized version of the Ogbo Ogwu market. He stressed that Onitsha, as Africa’s largest trading hub, must maintain credibility and high standards. Calling for tighter federal controls on drug imports, he reiterated his commitment to balancing economic growth with public safety, ensuring Anambra continues to thrive.