PCN Seals 379 Pharmacies, Medicines Shops in Rivers

The Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor, and Ikwerre local government districts of Rivers State have 379 pharmacies and patent medicine outlets closed, according to the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN).

According to the federal government agency, among the offenses that resulted in the closure of the stores were selling drugs without a prescription, operating without a license, and having inadequate storage facilities.

Mr. Stephen Esumobi, Director and Head of Enforcement Department, PCN, briefed journalists on the development yesterday in Port Harcourt. He said the goal of the action is to make sure that stakeholders adhere to the necessary standards of behavior in their activities.

Esumobi stated that the PCN enforcement team visited 543 locations where pharmaceuticals were sold during the monitoring period and added that the organization is now better equipped to fulfill its legal obligations to control every element of pharmacy practice.

He said, “The PCN over the years established structures in the states for effective engagement and regulating of stakeholders in the drug distribution chain across the country. 

“In spite of the efforts of the council in Rivers State so many patent medicine shop owners and other stakeholders have chosen to operate in total disregard for public safety. Most patent vendors are not registered with PCN and engage in activities far beyond their scope thereby endangering public health.