NAFDAC investigates possible drug link to corps member’s death

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched an investigation into the death of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member at the Enugu orientation camp amid reports linking the incident to suspected substandard or falsified medicines.

The agency said it had collected samples of medicines administered to the deceased for laboratory analysis but warned against drawing conclusions about the cause of death before the investigation is completed.

In a statement on Monday, October 19, 2026, signed by its Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC said its officers had visited the camp clinic and interviewed medical personnel and other staff involved in the case.

According to the agency, preliminary information showed that the corps member was taken to the clinic on Wednesday, October 7, with symptoms suggestive of severe malaria and a history of peptic ulcer disease.

He was treated, stabilised and discharged with oral medications the following morning.

However, he returned to the clinic on Saturday, October 10, complaining of right thigh pain and profuse sweating, alongside repeated episodes of low blood pressure.

NAFDAC said his condition deteriorated, with reduced urine output despite fluid resuscitation, prompting his referral to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla.

The corps member reportedly became comatose at the hospital, and attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

The agency said the preliminary clinical assessment suggested acute kidney injury resulting from severe dehydration and shock as the suspected cause of death.

It, however, stressed that the preliminary findings did not establish whether the medicines administered to him contributed to his death.

NAFDAC said it would take appropriate regulatory action based on the outcome of the investigation.

The agency also expressed condolences to the deceased’s family and urged the public to remain calm while investigations continue.

It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that medicines sold and used in Nigeria meet required standards of safety, quality and efficacy.

Members of the public can contact NAFDAC through its call centre on 0800-1-623322 or 0700-1-623322, or by email at reforms@nafdac.gov.ng.