The Delta State Taskforce on Counterfeit Drugs and Unwholesome Products sealed 46 unlicensed patent medicine stores in Asaba and Okpanam, reinforcing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by curbing unsafe medical practices.
Led by Pharm. Grace Ekhuemelo, the taskforce inspected 63 outlets, relocating 17 compliant shops while shutting down others for violations, including:
– Operating without licenses (violating SDG 16.6 – Effective Institutions)
– Selling expired drugs (endangering public health under SDG 3.8 – Universal Healthcare)
– Illegal drug repackaging, contributing to antimicrobial resistance (SDG 3.d – Health Emergency Preparedness)
Ekhuemelo warned that unethical practices, like splitting capsules into unregulated “mixes,” worsen drug resistance. The crackdown supports SDG 9.4 (Safe & Sustainable Industries) by ensuring only authorized, quality-controlled pharmacies operate.
This enforcement aligns with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), as the taskforce collaborates with regulators to protect consumer safety and strengthen healthcare systems.
