President John Dramani Mahama has vowed to ensure accountability for individuals and companies involved in the importation of alleged opioids into Ghana and other West African countries.
Speaking during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of his second term on Thursday, February 27, 2025, President Mahama assured the public that details of the ongoing investigation into the alleged sale of opioids would be transparently shared.
“We await thorough and unbiased investigation into the alleged opioid pill importation into Ghana and other West African countries. The outcome will be shared and I can assure you, necessary action will be taken,” Mr Mahama cautioned.
On February 26, 2027, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) suspended the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification of Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian drug manufacturer, following revelations of its involvement in the illegal distribution of opioid-based medications to West Africa.
The decision follows a BBC Africa Eye investigation, which exposed how Aveo Pharmaceuticals, through Westfin International, allegedly exported unapproved drugs containing tapentadol and carisoprodol to countries including Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
These substances, classified as highly addictive opioids, pose serious health risks, including respiratory failure and death when abused.
In response to the exposé, the FDA has instructed Samos Pharma, a Ghana-based importer, to cease all dealings with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International.
Furthermore, the registration process for six products from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which planned to use Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer, has been put on hold
Only $64,000 and GHS143m left in sinking fund – Mahama reveals
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