Abuja, Nigeria – 28 May 2025 – The International Human Rights Commission Corporation (IHRC) in Nigeria expresses its deep concern regarding the recent closure of a major market in Anambra State by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The development has led to significant public anxiety and debate, heightening tensions among traders, local communities, and various stakeholders across the state.

According to the official NAFDAC report, between 9 February and 27 March 2025, the Agency conducted an extensive enforcement operation targeting major Open Drug Markets: Idumota (Lagos), Aba (Abia), and Onitsha (Anambra). These operations resulted in the seizure and destruction of large quantities of banned, expired, falsified, and substandard medicines and controlled substances, collectively valued at over one trillion Naira. Investigations indicated that warehouses, shops, and distribution outlets within these markets failed to adhere to the Good Storage and Distribution Practice (GSDP) standards and operated without registration by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), in contravention of established national regulations.

NAFDAC has clarified that, pursuant to federal regulations, investigative charges were imposed on non-compliant operators. Notably, the initial N5,000,000 charge for the sale of unregistered products was reduced to N200,000 after appeals, while the N2,000,000 charge for GSDP violations was reduced to N500,000. According to NAFDAC, “these penalties are officially gazetted charges and were applied fairly across the affected markets.”

IHRC’s Official Position and Recommendations

In an official press statement, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, IHRC Country Representative, has called for calm, dialogue, and restraint from all parties—including affected traders, community leaders, and regulatory authorities. The IHRC strongly urges all stakeholders to refrain from any actions that could escalate the situation or undermine public order.

While recognising NAFDAC’s statutory mandate to regulate pharmaceuticals and ensure public health and safety, the IHRC emphasizes that transparency, due process, and constructive dialogue are essential in the enforcement of regulatory actions—especially where livelihoods are impacted.

The IHRC reiterates that regulatory enforcement must be guided by the principles of fairness, transparency, and the protection of human dignity. To this end, the Commission recommends:

1. Initiating comprehensive dialogue with all stakeholders, including market unions, civil society organisations, and local authorities, to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

2. Prioritising educational and corrective enforcement strategies over punitive market closures, thereby promoting voluntary compliance and sustainable public health outcomes.

3. Safeguarding the fundamental rights of traders, particularly the right to livelihood, in line with Nigeria’s constitutional and international human rights obligations.

Furthermore, the IHRC appeals to the Federal Government to intervene urgently and ensure a fair and peaceful resolution. The Commission also recommends the establishment of an independent review panel to assess the closure’s circumstances and recommend appropriate remedial actions consistent with human rights principles and the rule of law.

Commitment to Justice and Human Dignity

The IHRC remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of human rights for all Nigerians. The Commission stands ready to facilitate dialogue among all relevant parties to achieve a constructive, equitable, and lasting resolution.

IHRC calls upon both the Anambra State and Federal authorities to support this process, prevent further escalation of tensions, and ensure that justice and human dignity remain central to regulatory governance.

Signed:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications
IHRC Nigeria

This press statement is issued in line with IHRC’s mandate to uphold and promote international human rights standards, support peaceful conflict resolution, and foster constructive engagement between stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

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Following the recent developments over the meeting between the suspended Rivers State Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief (Barr.) Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the International Human Rights Commission – IHRC Corporation in Nigeria, expresses cautious optimism in the prolonged political impasse in Rivers State, Nigeria, as both parties have agreed to a peace arrangement facilitated by a former and incumbent Ogun State governor, Olusegun Osoba, and Dapo Abiodun respectively.

Notably, the IHRC Corporation in Nigeria issued an official statement on Thursday, 20 March 2025, calling on Nigerians, especially the good people of Rivers State, to prioritize a peaceful resolution within the six-month window of the state of emergency over political rivalries.

In this regard, IHRC commends the reported meeting between suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, viewing it as a positive step towards reconciliation and stability.

The political tension that has gripped Rivers State for months has had significant implications for governance, public trust, and socio-economic development. The IHRC has continuously monitored the situation, advocating for dialogue, the rule of law, and the protection of democratic institutions.

Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on March 18 declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State. The declaration came in response to the near-total collapse of governance, threats to critical federal infrastructure, and a growing risk of widespread unrest.

The President further suspended key elected officials, including Governor Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly, and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as Sole Administrator to restore order and stability.

IHRC Country Representative Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, noted that: “While this meeting does not signify an immediate end to the crisis, it signals a willingness by key actors to engage in constructive dialogue. This is a necessary precursor to any sustainable resolution.”

The IHRC urges all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and the media, to support ongoing efforts at peace-building and to refrain from actions or rhetoric that could undermine unity. The Commission further encourages the federal government and relevant institutions to facilitate and mediate where necessary to safeguard democratic governance in the state.

Similarly, in an earlier weekly report by the IHRC Special Monitoring Mission, Acting State Coordinator in Rivers State, Comrade Sundrix Ogor, praised the renewed dialogue between the two political figures as a crucial step towards reconciliation and peace.

The report emphasized that the recent meeting in Abuja—where Governor Fubara visited Minister Wike alongside two sitting governors and a respected elder statesman—demonstrates a positive move towards ending the protracted crisis that had disrupted governance and posed significant human rights concerns.

As developments unfold, the IHRC remains committed to its role in promoting peace, human rights, and democratic values across Nigeria and the broader region.

Reported by:
Signed:

Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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On April 30, 2025, the International Human Rights Commission IHRC Corporation officially launched its humanitarian operations in the Lubunga commune, situated on the left bank of the Congo River in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This initiative signifies a pivotal step in IHRC’s dedication to assisting populations affected by recent intercommunal conflicts between the Mbole and Lengola ethnic groups.

A Humanitarian Response to an Acute Crisis

The violent clashes between the Mbole and Lengola communities have led to the displacement of thousands, now residing in emergency shelters such as the Sainte Marthe parish in Lubunga, Saint Gabriel parish in Simisimi, the communal office of Kisangani, and an informal site along the SEP-CONGO road.

In response, IHRC, represented by its provincial coordinator, Mr. Bertin Ndjike, organized a distribution of new and clean clothing to the displaced individuals at the Sainte Marthe parish. This action aims to address the essential needs of the victims while restoring their dignity and hope.

“We visited our brothers and sisters, parents, younger siblings who have been victims of the atrocious barbarity of a bloody conflict. As we say in Africa, one does not visit empty-handed. That’s why we delivered five bundles of clothing here at Sainte Marthe.” — Bertin Ndjike

Promoting Peace and Social Cohesion

Beyond material assistance, IHRC is actively engaged in promoting peace and reconciliation among the affected communities. Mr. Ndjike urged the displaced individuals to cultivate peace and forgiveness, essential elements for sustainable development and strengthened social cohesion.

“We thought of these friends, brothers, and sisters who have suffered these atrocities. They deserve to live in peace and social cohesion. Our actions will be continuous so that these victims can exercise their rights. The International Human Rights Commission will always stand by their side.” — Bertin Ndjike

Strengthening Presence in Tshopo Province

This initiative in Lubunga marks the beginning of a series of actions planned by IHRC in Tshopo province. Similar visits and distributions are scheduled for the sites of Saint Gabriel in Simisimi and Konga-Konga in the Kisangani commune. Through these actions, IHRC is reinforcing its presence in the region, contributing to community development and post-conflict reconstruction.

Conclusion

The commitment of the International Human Rights Commission in the DRC, particularly in the Lubunga commune, exemplifies an integrated humanitarian approach that combines material assistance with the promotion of human rights. By working towards dignity, peace, and social cohesion, IHRC positions itself as a key actor in responding to humanitarian crises in Central Africa.

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