Akwa Ibom State government has banned the sale, hawking and consumption of a herbal mixture popularly called Dr. Igudu Koko Cleanser and other unregulated drugs and food in the state.

 

The ban followed series of complaints from doctors to government arising from patients’ incessant organ failure as result of the consumption of all kinds of unregistered drugs in the state.

 

A statement signed by the Director of Pharmaceutical Services of the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Mary Ukponguso on behalf of the commissioner, Dr. Dominic Ukpong, said the products are purported to be cleansers, bitters, food supplements and other forms of herbal preparations.

 

 

According to the statement claims by promoters of the products to provide solution to different ailments and disease condition including hypertension, typhoid and others have not been scientifically substantiated by relevant regulatory authorities.

 

To this end the pharmaceutical inspection committee of the state ministry of health has been empowered to carry out surveillance and enforcement to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators of the act in line with the law.

 

The statement advised members of the public to exercise caution in the consumption of drugs and herbs not prescribed by certified medical personnel. It also advised them to seek attention for their health problems in the various registered health facilities in the state.

 

By Patrick Odey

Daily Trust