By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unearthed loads of vaccines, including those for Yellow Fever, Diphtheria, Dano Anti-Tetanus, and Measles, hidden under a staircase in the popular Idumota Drug Market in Lagos State.

According to NAFDAC, the vaccines were uncovered on Thursday during an operation carried out as part of a routine surveillance exercise targeting illegal drug distribution networks.

The Agency noted that the suspect was supplying the vaccines to neighbouring West African countries including Liberia

In a post on its X page on Friday, NAFDAC said, “Yesterday at the Idumota Drug Market, NAFDAC officials discovered a stash of vaccines, including Yellow Fever, Dano Anti-Tetanus, Measles, and Diphtheria vaccines, hidden under a staircase.

“Preliminary investigations revealed the suspect was supplying these products to neighbouring West African countries like Liberia.”

The agency added that the premises where the vaccines were uncovered was equipped with CCTV cameras, suggesting active monitoring.

“The suspect has been apprehended and is currently in detention,” it added.

Dr. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of NAFDAC, had condemned the reckless handling of sensitive vaccines, stressing that the agency would intensify crackdowns on unauthorised drug dealers.

Recently, NAFDAC has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and urged Nigerians to report suspicious drug distribution activities to authorities.

The agency has also promised to continue its efforts to rid the country of fake drugs.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a strong advisory urging the Osun State Government to immediately suspend the upcoming Local Government elections due to credible intelligence indicating high security threats and potential violence.

This is just as the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has announced the the LG polls across the state are holding.

He also ordered the restriction of vehicular movements in the state during the election.

In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police warned that various groups, including political elements, are allegedly mobilizing to instigate unrest, disrupt public peace, and undermine democratic stability. Given the volatile security situation, the police emphasized that allowing the elections to proceed could lead to widespread unrest, endangering lives and property. “The Force has assessed the current security landscape and determined that proceeding with the elections under these volatile conditions could escalate into widespread unrest.

The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, is fully prepared to take decisive action to prevent any breakdown of law and order. However, to avert unnecessary confrontation and safeguard the democratic process, it is in the best interest of all stakeholders that the elections be stood down,” the statement read. Beyond security concerns, the police also cited legal complexities, referencing the recent clarification by the Attorney-General of the Federation. The Court of Appeal judgment delivered on February 22, 2025, reportedly nullified a previous Federal High Court ruling, raising further questions about the legal foundation of the planned elections. “In light of the combination of heightened security threats and the existing legal complexities, the Nigeria Police Force advises the Osun State Government to reconsider and suspend the planned elections immediately,” the statement concluded. The police urged all stakeholders, including political parties, to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety and stability of the state.