The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised alarm over the activities of a group in Rivers State allegedly involved in the distribution of fake and unregistered medical products, masquerading under the guise of evangelism.
During a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, the South-South Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Mr. Chukwuma Oligbu, revealed that the operation was uncovered at the Abuloma Community Town Hall, where members of the group were reportedly administering questionable substances to unsuspecting residents.
One Suspect Apprehended During Live Administration According to Mr. Oligbu, a member of the group was caught in the act while administering one of the alleged counterfeit drugs to a civilian.
The suspect was immediately detained for questioning, and the products in question have been confiscated and taken to NAFDAC’s facility for laboratory analysis and documentation.
Among the items recovered were: Evangelist Jenkins Supernatural Water Evangelist Jenkins Cleanser Evangelist Jenkins Eye Drop These products were being promoted as miraculous curses for a range of health issues, including eye problems, gastrointestinal disorders, goitre, cancer, fibroids, arthritis, piles, rashes, cataracts, and glaucoma.
False Claims and Dangerous Practices Mr. Oligbu emphasized the deceptive tactics used by the group, noting that they claimed to be offering free medical outreach while collecting money from participants. In reality, he said, each drug was being sold for no less than ₦5,000, and the group issued consultation cards to project a false sense of legitimacy.
Disturbingly, reports have emerged that some recipients of the so-called treatments, particularly the eye drops, experienced adverse effects such as swelling of the eyes.
The group allegedly reassured victims that the symptoms were signs of the product’s effectivenessan assertion NAFDAC strongly refutes.
No Approval, No Information, No Safety
The NAFDAC director condemned the group’s actions, stressing that none of the products were registered, nor did they carry essential safety information such as: Ingredient lists NAFDAC registration numbers Manufacturer’s name or address Production or expiry dates“These are clear indicators that the products are not only unapproved but potentially dangerous,” Oligbu said. “The public must not fall for such fraudulent schemes, no matter the disguise religious or otherwise.
NAFDAC’s Next Steps and Public Appeal
Oligbu assured that scientific testing would be conducted on the confiscated products to determine their true composition and potential risks. The agency has also vowed to pursue legal action against all individuals and entities involved in the operation.
He urged residents to exercise caution when approached with medical treatments, especially when such offers come from unverified sources or are framed as part of religious missions. “We are committed to eradicating fake drugs and ensuring the health and safety of all Nigerians,” Oligbu said. “We call on members of the public to report any suspicious activity involving drug sales or distribution to NAFDAC immediately.”
NAFDAC encouraged the public to utilize its toll-free line: 09097630507 to report illegal drug-related activities and to always verify the registration status of products before use.
