POLITICS OF OPEN DRUG MARKET AND THE FEAR OF CRISIS ESCALATION

The government planned closure of the open drug market which ought to kick off by the end of June 2014 may have suffered some setbacks as the presidency is foot dragging in the implementation of a policy that will safeguard the lives of millions of Nigerians, encourage pharmaceutical growth of the local industries as well empower more pharmacist who swore an oath to protect and safe guard the life of drug consumers by always ensuring that quality is maintained. The actual cost of poor handling of drugs is evident in the rising statistics of the young people who suffer from kidney failure and other end-stage organ failures as a result of unsafe drugs and poor drug storage. This policy also aimed at improving the funds available for research in the area of medicine instead of empowering illiterate traders whose vision does not exceed construction of hostels, storey buildings and befitting mansions in their villages. The government should therefor not go back on its decision to close the open drug market because of the expected tension it will cause adding to the already hot polity and its impact on Jonathan"s re-election bid However statesmen think of the next generation and not the next election. Many Open Drug market Dealers have prepared themselves and are wealthy enough to take care of themselves or invest in-the new system that will follow as investors they will not lose their investment but continue to make profits however the policy must and must be implemented as planned.