The Bayelsa State Com
missioner for Health, Dr Ayibatonye Owei, said the state government would partner with the Federal Ministry of Health to checkmate the circulation of fake and expired drugs.
Owei spoke during an inspection of some health facilities in Sagbama local government area of the state.
The commissioner described fake drugs as a threat to the development of the health system in the country.
“Several polices have been made by the Federal Government to monitor the sale of fake drugs in the country.
“I should say that fake drug is one of the major setbacks in the health system, so, Bayelsa Government will key into the Federal Government policies on the war against fake drug.
“We will set up a team that will be inspecting both private and public hospitals, pharmaceutical stores and drug hawkers in the state.
“Bayelsa cannot be a dumping ground for adulterated drug; the team will be going round the state, especially the rural communities, to fast track development,” the commissioner said.
On health facilities, Owei said that the state government remained committed to the provision of quality healthcare for the people.
The commissioner said that the ongoing construction of eight referral hospitals was a step in that direction.
