By Stephen Adeleye.
The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Kogi State chapter has shut down a veterinary store, Geo-Vex Agroventure, in Sango community, Kabba, for operating illegally and providing quack services to unsuspecting customers.
The store was found to be mixing antibiotics in plastic bottles and storing vaccines improperly, posing a health risk to both animals and humans.
Dr. Tolu Samuel Omotugba, Chairman of NVMA Kogi State, while addressing newsmen on Friday in Kabba, said the action was taken after receiving a petition and verifying the illicit activities at the premise.
“The perpetrator had no experienced veterinary practitioner or animal health scientist, and was simply running a buying and selling business without regard for professional ethics,” Dr. Omotugba said.
Dr Omotugba, who doubles as the Vice-Chairman of Veterinary council of Nigeria (VCN) Regulatory Committee of Veterinary Premises in Kogi, said the action would serve as a warning to others operating similarly and ensure only qualified professionals provide veterinary services.
The NVMA chairman advised livestock farmers to patronize reputable veterinary premises and avoid buying drugs from unlicensed sources to prevent health risks to their animals and humans.
“They should stop buying drugs mixed in plastic bottles, it causes serious problems and toxicity in animals,” he said.
Dr Musa Gomina Mohammed, Secretary of NVMA, explained that the shop was shut down due to the risks associated with the vendor’s practices, including drug resistance in humans.
“The vendor was mixing drugs without regard for proper protocols, posing a risk to animal and human health,” Dr. Mohammed said,
He added that the association had advised the vendor to register his premises but he failed to comply.
The vendor, Mr. Geoffrey Offorha, owner of Geo-Vex Agroventure, claimed he had initiated the registration process and met the necessary requirements, but was awaiting approval.
“I was told to wait for further notice, but I never received any follow-up,” Offorha said,
Offorha added that he would visit the Ministry of Livestock Development in Lokoja to address the issue.
The NVMA urged veterinary drug vendors to register their premises and employ licensed veterinary practitioners to oversee their activities.
The association emphasized the importance of proper regulation to curb quackery and antimicrobial resistance.
Our Correspondent who monitored the sealing of the shop, reports that residents of the area commended NVMA for the action.
They stressed that it would serve as a deterrent to other perpetrators of such illicit act.
