PCN seals 821 drug outlets in Kano over violations
Kano State: Pharmacy Council of Nigeria Seals 821 Premises for Violations
The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 821 pharmaceutical premises in Kano State due to regulatory violations. The enforcement operation, which spanned four days and covered eight local government areas, was announced at a press briefing on Thursday at the council’s state office in Kano.
Dr. Suleiman S. Chiroma, the Head of Enforcement, addressed the media on behalf of the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer. He stated that the operation specifically targeted illegal medicine vendors and non-compliant pharmaceutical outlets operating outside approved standards.
During the inspection, a total of 1,140 premises were evaluated, which included pharmacies, patent and proprietary medicine vendor (PPMV) stores, and unlicensed outlets. Of the inspected premises, 68 pharmacies, 587 PPMV stores, and 166 illegal outlets were sealed.
Chiroma reported that the enforcement team issued 10 compliance directives. Additionally, one operator was arrested for obstructing inspectors and violating the provisions of the PCN Act. The team uncovered multiple infractions, such as the inability to produce valid licenses, the sale of prescription-only medications by unlicensed vendors, inadequate storage conditions, and general obstruction of regulatory officers.
The PCN emphasized that these violations pose significant risks to public health, potentially leading to drug abuse, poisoning, and the distribution of substandard or falsified medicines.
Clusters of illegal pharmaceutical activities were notably identified in the Kasuwan Kurmi and Kwangiri areas of Kano metropolis, where 46 non-compliant premises were sealed.
Chiroma indicated that the enforcement exercise resulted in improved compliance levels, with a greater number of premises now adhering to regulatory standards. He called on the public to patronize only licensed pharmaceutical outlets displaying valid PCN certification. He further reassured that the council would continue its nationwide enforcement efforts to ensure the availability of safe and quality medicines.
