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News SecurityOndo Election: FRSC Deploys 1,500 Operatives To Enforce Restriction Of Vehicular
Ahead of the November 16, Ondo governorship election, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has approved the deployment of 1,500 operatives to the state.
The deployed operatives are to collaborate with other security agencies to enforce compliance on restrictions of vehicular movement.
A statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer, ACM Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Thursday said, the Corps Marshal's directives, mandate operatives to clear the roads of instructions.
They are to also, “carry out rescue operations in case of emergencies, and maintain orderliness in polling booths.
The statement says adequate mobilisation has also been made for the deployment of 25 patrol vehicles, 7 tow trucks, as well as 6 ambulances to strengthen enforcement.
Mr. Muhammad, who wished electorates peaceful election, charged operatives to be professional in their conduct, warning them against getting involved in election.
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Health NewsHow To Detect Fake Drugs In Nigeria: Essential Steps For Consumer Safety
The WHO defines counterfeit drugs as those deliberately mislabeled to deceive consumers about their identity or origin, affecting both branded and generic products. Other types of illicit drugs include substandard drugs, which are authorized but fail to meet quality standards, and unregistered/unlicensed drugs, which lack approval from health authorities. Counterfeit drugs are often hard to detect, resembling genuine products, and may circulate through both legitimate and illegitimate distributors. They pose severe public health risks, potentially leading to untreated illnesses, serious health effects, poisoning, or death. Suspected counterfeit drugs should be reported to health authorities or law enforcement.
The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHDA) previoisly reported that over 70% of medicines dispensed in Nigeria are substandard, highlighting limited access to quality healthcare. Supporting this, the Nigeria Customs Service, alongside agencies like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and NAFDAC, continue to destroy containers of substandard drugs entering the country. These substandard drugs have serious health implications, causing issues like loss of sight, hearing defects, and kidney and liver damage, which continue to affect many Nigerians
Nigeria has become the largest counterfeit drug market in the developing world according to Bloomberg, leading to thousands of deaths each year due to fake drugs, with around 120,000 Africans dying annually from this issue. Fake drug peddlers operate widely, often disguising their products, while uncertified street chemists commonly sell medications. Most counterfeit drugs in Nigeria are reportedly imported from countries like India, China, Pakistan, Egypt, and Indonesia. Recent exits of pharma giants GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Sanofi from the Nigerian market have further limited access to legitimate medications, causing prices to surge and increasing demand for counterfeit alternatives, such as asthma inhalers, in a country with 10 million asthma sufferers.
Consumers, however, can take practical steps to minimize their exposure to fake drugs. Here’s a guide on how to detect fake drugs in Nigeria, with an emphasis on essential steps that individuals, families, and communities can use to protect themselves.
1. Verify Packaging and Labeling
The first step in detecting counterfeit drugs is to scrutinize the packaging. Counterfeit drugs often exhibit signs of poor quality in their packaging:
• Check for Spelling Errors: Any spelling mistakes, incorrect grammar, or blurry text are immediate red flags. Authentic drugs are produced with high standards, and errors in labeling can indicate that the drug is a counterfeit.
• Inspect the Seal and Expiry Date: Genuine medicines will have a proper seal. Counterfeit packaging may lack this or have seals that look tampered with. Also, check for an expiry date that’s clear and intact—counterfeit products often don’t display one or may show dates that look suspiciously altered.
• Look for Holograms and Barcodes: Many manufacturers now include holograms, QR codes, or unique barcodes that can be scanned for verification. Always verify these details with the pharmacy or check online if the brand provides a portal for code verification.
2. Use Mobile Authentication Services (MAS)
Mobile Authentication Services (MAS) have revolutionized drug verification in Nigeria. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and several pharmaceutical companies have adopted SMS-based verification:
• Locate the MAS Code: Many legitimate drugs sold in Nigeria now have an MAS code or scratch panel on the packaging. Once scratched, the panel reveals a unique code.
• Send the Code via SMS: Send this code to the number provided (usually shortcodes specific to each brand or regulatory authority). Within moments, you should receive a message confirming if the product is authentic or fake.
• Check Alternative Apps: Some companies also support mobile apps that allow you to verify a drug's authenticity through QR codes or unique serial numbers. Ensure your phone has internet connectivity if using these apps.
3. Only Purchase from Certified Pharmacies
While this may seem straightforward, a large number of consumers in Nigeria buy medications from uncertified sellers or roadside vendors:
• Check for Certification: Always purchase drugs from registered pharmacies or well-established drug stores. These certified outlets undergo regular inspection and are more likely to stock genuine drugs. Avoid purchasing from unverified vendors, even if their prices seem more affordable.
• Look for the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) Certification: Certified pharmacies display a PCN certification prominently, indicating that the outlet is registered with the council. Checking for this certification is an easy but effective way to ensure that you are buying from a trusted source.
4. Be Wary of Extremely Low Prices
If a drug is priced significantly lower than the average market price, it is essential to be cautious:
• Compare Prices: Counterfeit drugs are often sold at a fraction of the price of authentic medications. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Compare prices across several pharmacies if you’re unsure.
• Question Suspicious Discounts: Some vendors may offer large discounts or promotional offers to sell fake drugs quickly. Always ask for reasons behind unusually low prices, especially if it’s not part of a brand-authorized promotion.
5. Examine the Drug’s Physical Appearance
Counterfeit drugs are not only packaged poorly; they often have visual or physical inconsistencies:
• Observe Shape, Color, and Texture: A genuine drug will have a consistent appearance each time you buy it. Any deviation in color, shape, or texture can indicate a counterfeit. For instance, faded colors, broken pills, or unusual spots on tablets can be a sign of poor manufacturing standards.
• Check for Unusual Smells or Tastes: Certain drugs, especially tablets and syrups, may have a distinctive taste or smell. If you notice a strange odor or an unusual taste that wasn’t present in previous purchases of the same medication, be cautious and report it to the pharmacy.
6. Watch for Unusual Reactions
If you experience any unusual side effects or a lack of improvement in your condition, consider the possibility that the drug may be counterfeit:
• Monitor Side Effects: Common symptoms after taking a counterfeit drug can include nausea, dizziness, headaches, or worsening of the initial condition. These effects can vary but are usually distinct from typical side effects of authentic drugs.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you suspect an unusual reaction, consult a healthcare provider immediately. A professional assessment can help identify whether the drug is genuine or counterfeit and provide guidance on next steps.
7. Leverage NAFDAC’s Track-and-Trace Technology
NAFDAC, the regulatory health body overseeing drug quality in Nigeria, has invested in track-and-trace systems:
• Use NAFDAC’s Drug Authentication Service (DAS): This service involves the use of track-and-trace labels or codes on drug packaging, allowing consumers to verify authenticity.
• Report Suspicious Products to NAFDAC: If you come across a product that seems counterfeit, report it to NAFDAC. Their contact numbers, website, and email are accessible, and they encourage public reporting to help monitor and regulate the market. All Complaints or conflicts should be forwarded through the following address; [email protected], [email protected], or the nearest NAFDAC state offices
8. Avoid Drugs from Unauthorized Online Sources
Online marketplaces can be a hotbed for counterfeit drugs, as peddlers take advantage of limited regulation and direct-to-consumer sales:
• Buy from Verified Online Pharmacies: If buying online, use verified e-pharmacies that are registered and authorized to operate by the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria.
• Check for Proper Contact Information: Legitimate online pharmacies will have verifiable contact information and a physical address. Avoid any website that does not provide this, as they may be selling counterfeit products.
9. Be Cautious with Imported Drugs
With a significant portion of Nigeria's counterfeit drugs coming from countries like India, China, and Pakistan, it is wise to be cautious when purchasing large quantities of imported drugs:
• Ask for Importation Details: Certified pharmacies should have records of drug importation, showing the source and legality of the products. This includes the import permit issued by NAFDAC.
• Confirm Batch Numbers and Registration: Registered imports will have specific batch numbers and registration with NAFDAC, so ask for these details, especially for high-value drugs like antibiotics or inhalers in high quantities for health facilities.
10. Educate Yourself and Raise Awareness
Ultimately, awareness is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against counterfeit drugs. Educating yourself and those around you can help prevent future risks:
• Stay Informed About Commonly Counterfeited Drugs: Certain drugs, like antimalarials, antibiotics, and pain relievers, are more frequently counterfeited. Knowing this can help you stay vigilant.
• Share Information with Family and Friends: The more people who know about counterfeit detection, the harder it becomes for counterfeiters to operate. Educating your community creates a ripple effect, fostering collective vigilance.
Conclusion
The proliferation of counterfeit drugs in Nigeria is a serious threat to public health, but with the right steps, individuals can protect themselves. From inspecting packaging to using mobile verification services, buying from certified pharmacies, and reporting suspicious drugs, every effort counts. By staying informed and vigilant, consumers can play an active role in safeguarding their health and helping combat the counterfeit drug market in Nigeria.
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Business NewsNNPCL Claims 1.8m Barrels Per Day Crude Oil Production
The company also stated that it is set to hit the two million barrels per day target set by President Bola Tinubu by December 2024.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) says it has reached the mark of 1.8 million barrels per day of crude oil production.
The state-owned oil company which made the announcement on Thursday, also stated that it is set to hit the two million barrels per day target set by President Bola Tinubu by December 2024.
The company also revealed that it is now producing 7.4 million standard cubic feet of gas to power the gas infrastructure especially the AKK. This is an improvement from 6.1 mmscf earlier in the year.
The NNPCL noted that the accomplishment which aligns with the government’s budget, reflects the dedication of all of its teams over the past weeks.
During an interactive session with the Senate Committee on Finance at the National Assembly in December last year, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Company, Mr. Mele Kyari, had assured that the projections on crude oil production and price benchmark for the 2024 Budget were realistic and realizable.
Speaking on the dynamics of the market in relation to the projected budget benchmark price of $77.96 per barrel, Kyari said: “With what we see in the market today and potentially in the year 2024 and even beyond the next two years, it is very unlikely to see $70 per barrel oil in the market.
The oscillation we are seeing, sometimes you do see prices coming down to $75 to the barrel and sometimes it goes above it, overall, benchmarks are averages. We think that the proposal by Mr. President around the $77.96 is still realisable in 2024.”
On the crude oil production projection, Kyari had stated: “The number we have is 1.785mbpd. This is cumulative of all oil produced in the country. This figure is inclusive of all production including crude oil and condensate.
“I need to make this clarification because of the reports in the media that our OPEC quota is 1.5million barrels per day. The OPEC quota is related only to crude oil. We also do between 250,000 to 300,000 barrels per day of condensate in our production. When you combine the two, the 1.78mbpd is realistic and realisable.”
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NewsAmotekun Foils Self-Kidnap Plot By 41-Year-Old Man In Ogun
The Ogun State Security Network, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, has thwarted a self-kidnap scheme allegedly staged by a 41-year-old resident, Enitan Awoyemi, in an attempt to evade a debt of around N1 million.
According to a statement on Wednesday by the state’s Amotekun Commander, Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (retd.), Awoyemi, a resident of Irolu-Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area, allegedly faked his abduction to avoid paying a substantial gambling-related debt.
The plot surfaced after Awoyemi’s wife, Mrs Tope Awoyemi, reported to the Amotekun Irolu outpost on 10 November that her husband had called, claiming he had been kidnapped the previous day by unknown individuals who were demanding a ransom of N5 million for his release.
“Upon receiving the report, the Amotekun Intelligence team launched an investigation into the alleged abduction. Findings revealed that Enitan Awoyemi had accrued significant debts from gambling in a lotto game, amounting to a staggering N1 million,” the statement read.
The statement added that Awoyemi, a frequent gambler, had previously won N6 million, using part of his winnings to purchase a Toyota Corolla Sport car and a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle for commercial purposes.
However, faced with the inability to repay his debt, he allegedly resorted to faking his own kidnapping.
Amotekun officers, working closely with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and other local stakeholders, tracked the suspect to Ijagba town and later to Ota in the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area.
He was eventually apprehended early on Wednesday at the Irolu Okada Park during routine patrol operations.
Officers noticed a strong smell of insecticide on Awoyemi, suggesting a possible suicide attempt. He was immediately rushed to Rufina Private Hospital in Iperu for medical care.
Brigadier General Adedigba assured the public that Awoyemi would face due legal processes.
“Once he is discharged from the hospital, he will be handed over to the police for further proceedings,” he stated.
The Amotekun Commander praised the collaborative efforts that led to the suspect’s capture and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
“This incident underscores the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety and security,” Adedigba said.
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Entertainment NewsI Didn’t Do Anything Wrong, Won’t Apologise – Verydarkman To Falz, Falana
Activist and social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, remains defiant amid ongoing legal action from renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana and his son, popular musician and activist Falz, following accusations of defamation.
In a recent Instagram post, Verydarkman shared that he had arrived in Lagos with his legal representative, Deji Adeyanju, ahead of the court hearing.
The hearing, set to commence at 9:00 a.m. at Ikeja High Court, follows claims that Verydarkman defamed the Falana family by sharing unverified audio alleging misconduct.
The controversy began when Verydarkman posted a recording in which crossdresser Bobrisky allegedly claimed that Falana and Falz had contacted her during her six-month sentence for naira abuse, reportedly offering to secure her a presidential pardon for ₦10 million.
Bobrisky, however, has since denied the recording’s authenticity and threatened legal action against Otse, accusing him of defamation.
The Falana family also demanded an apology and retraction, warning of legal consequences.
Despite this, Verydarkman has refused to apologise, maintaining that his actions were aimed at “exposing corruption” rather than defaming the Falana family.
“They (Falana and Falz) said I defamed them, but for me, it’s corruption I exposed,” Verydarkman stated in a video post.
“I see things that don’t make sense, like someone going to prison and not serving their jail term or the EFCC, which is supposed to catch people involved in corruption, collecting money.”
“That’s what I exposed. But sadly, some people (Falana and Falz) whose names were mentioned said I should have informed them before posting such things about them.
“They (Falana and Falz) asked me to apologise. I don’t see anything wrong with what I did, so I’m not apologising to anybody. If someone’s name is mentioned, they should clear their name.”