In Kano, NAFDAC Shuts Down Warehouse Stocked with Explosive Chemicals
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed a warehouse in the Kwakwachi area of Fagge Local Government, Kano State, after discovering a massive cache of highly dangerous chemicals capable of being used to manufacture explosives.
Acting on credible intelligence, NAFDAC’s enforcement team uncovered the facility on Wednesday, finding approximately 60,000 litres of sulphuric acid, 28,560 litres of nitric acid, and 330 empty jerricans, raising serious public safety and national security concerns.
Speaking during the inspection, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by Dr. Martins Iluyomade, described the discovery as “mind-boggling,” noting it was one of the largest illegal chemical seizures in the agency’s history.
“What we have seen here is shocking. I don’t think I’ve ever encountered this volume of concentrated nitric and sulphuric acid in one location. It poses an enormous threat,” she said.
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Prof. Adeyeye revealed that the warehouse owner is neither a licensed chemical marketer nor listed in the agency’s national database that tracks the importation, use, and disposal of controlled chemicals. She emphasized that substances like nitric and sulphuric acid are strictly regulated due to their use in manufacturing explosives.
“Importing such chemicals without proper authorization is illegal. Clearance from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and a valid permit are mandatory. This individual had none,” she stressed.
She warned that the quantity of chemicals found could cause widespread devastation if mishandled, stating, “The volume here is enough to wipe out the entire city of Kano.”
NAFDAC has launched a full investigation to identify and apprehend the fugitive warehouse owner, who is currently on the run.
“We are determined to bring the perpetrator to justice. He must explain how he acquired these chemicals, how they entered the country, and who the intended recipients were. This is a grave matter of national security,” she added.
By PRNigeria
