The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) says anybody or corporate body found selling drugs in an open market without being registered and controlled by the PCN commits criminal offence and liable on conviction to a fine or term of imprisonment for 3 years or both as provided by Section 52 of the Act.
It said the sale of such drugs will only takes place when registered by the PCN in accordance with Section 22 of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria Act.
This was contained in a statement signed by PCN Registrar Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed which was sent to GLOBAL TRACKER.
According to the statement PCN wished to inform the general public particularly in Kano state that the Law prohibits the sale of drugs in all open markets is still in enforce.
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It reads “Any person or corporate body involved in the sale of drugs must do so only when registered by the PCN in accordance with Section 22 of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria Act.
“Any person or corporate body that sells drugs in such open markets without being registered and controlled by the PCN commits criminal offence and liable on conviction to a fine or term of imprisonment for 3 years or both as provided by Section 52 of the Act. By Section 54 of the Act also, such owner of the shop or the company or any person who operates it on behalf of another person commits criminal offence and liable on conviction to fine or term of imprisonment for 2 years or both.
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“Pharmacy business owners and operators are hereby advised to take the opportunity created by the establishment of the Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) Dangwauro for sale of drugs along Zaria road, Kano and obtain shops there for the legitimate sale of their drugs to prevent incurring the wrath of the law.
“Members of public who wish to make wholesale purchase of drugs are also warned against the purchase of drugs from illegal operators sited in open drug markets.
“The PCN shall vigorously inspect to ensure compliance so that the health of the public is not endangered by such unscrupulous and illegal operators who are the major sources for illegal, fake and expired drugs and who are conduits to those who abuse and misuse drugs.
“The PCN appreciates the collaboration from Kano State government, Emirate Council, Security Agencies and other Sister Regulatory Bodies for the commitment shown in protecting the public against the scourge of illegal drug use and illegal drug sellers.