The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reportedly shut down a warehouse in Kano after finding a large amount of dangerous chemicals that can be used to make explosives.
NAFDAC officials found the warehouse on Wednesday, July 23, in the Kwakwachi area of Fagge Local Government, following a tip-off and inspection by NAFDAC enforcement officials.
It contained 60,000 litres of sulphuric acid and 28,560 litres of nitric acid, along with 330 empty jerricans.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, who was represented by Dr. Martins Iluyomade, described the discovery as “mind-boggling” and said this was one of the largest illegal chemical finds the agency has ever seen.
“What we have seen here is mind-boggling; I don’t think I have ever seen this quantity of concentrated nitric and sulphuric acid together in one place like this before,” Adeyeye said.
Adeyeye added that the owner is not a registered chemical seller and did not have the required permits from the National Security Adviser.
According to Adeyeye, “The owner is not listed as a chemical marketer. We keep a database to monitor the importation, use, and disposal of such chemicals. These acids are controlled chemicals that are not to be handled by just anybody. Importing such chemicals requires clearance from the National Security Adviser and permits, none of which the owner possessed.
“Permit and clearance is important because these chemicals are used to manufacture explosives. The volume we have here is enough to destroy the whole of Kano if mishandled.”
She added that investigations are underway to track down the warehouse owner, who is currently at large.
“We will ensure that he is brought to justice. He needs to explain how these chemicals were imported and who he was supplying them to. This is a serious national security issue.”
