The politics of open drug market and our governments inability to implement the planned closure of the open drug market.
Since 2011 the federal ministry of health and other sister agencies and stakeholders have continued to work on modalities for the ultimate closure of the open drug markets all over the country. The discussion about the middle role and bulk breaking duties of the open drug market has been pitched a number of times and debated extensively. finally the decision has been made to close the open drug market but so far the challenge is timing. When and by whom. Who has the balls to take the bull by the horn. A three year weaning period was decided on to allow the traders find alternative sources of income as well as allow the government time to put the infrastructures in the form of state central pharmacy depots in place. The government has failed in financially backing this huge project as it built a few complexes beside dominant markets. These are grossly inadequate. The Jonathan Administration postponed the closure yet again from 2014 to 2015. This was a political decision not to upset the Igbos who have major stakes in the open drug market nationwide and major supporters of GEJ. However the dangers of open drug market cannot be overstated. In open drug market drugs can become toxic or lose its potency either way harming the patient.
Nigeria is glad to have a man known for his strict leadership style in the name of GMB. It is the wish of Nigerian and Medical professionals that come July 2015 the open drug market would be closed to drug sale. All eyes would be on Buhari to see how humane enough he executes this first onerous task as both the traders and patients are Nigerians who only need to be educated on the value of safety in ensuring our survival and economic development. To those who have qualms about closing the open drug market I say the sooner the healthier.
