Ghana Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has expressed its discontent with the GH¢93,905,760.79 judgment debt awarded to Tobinco Pharmaceutical Limited, following a protracted legal battle.
The case stems from the seizure and destruction of Tobinco’s products in 2013, after allegations of importing counterfeit drugs into Ghana.
The FDA has firmly refuted claims that its current CEO, Delese Mimi Darko, failed to mount a robust defense, leading to the authority’s loss in court.
“The FDA acknowledges the judgment delivered by the High Court. However, the Authority respectfully disagrees with the decision and intends to exercise its right to appeal,” the FDA stated.
The legal dispute dates back to 2013 when Tobinco’s products were seized and destroyed by the FDA under former CEO, Dr. Stephen Opuni.
The actions taken by the FDA caused significant financial loss and public embarrassment for Tobinco. After a decade-long legal battle, Tobinco was finally vindicated, with the High Court ruling in their favour on July 29, 2024.
The court’s decision contradicted claims made by Dr. Opuni, clearing Tobinco Pharmaceuticals of all allegations of importing counterfeit drugs.
However, the FDA remains resolute in its disagreement with the ruling and has signalled its intention to seek justice through an appeal.
Dr. Opuni’s alleged leadership mess has come back to haunt Ghanaians, with the GH¢94 million judgment debt burdening the state. Opuni’s actions have raised questions about his leadership and accountability, with some calling for further criminal trials.
“The FDA remains committed to upholding the judicial process and adhering to the rule of law and will follow due process until the matter is fully resolved,” the FDA stated.
BY Daniel Bampoe