Stakeholders in Edo State, Nigeria, are demanding stronger action against producers and dealers of counterfeit and adulterated products. They argue that these products pose serious threats to public health and constitute criminal offences. The call was made at a Town Hall meeting organized by the Edo State Consumer Protection Committee. The committee's efforts have been commended by stakeholders, who also expressed concern over the proliferation of fake products in markets and business outlets.
The Town Hall meeting, themed "Eradicating Counterfeit/Adulterated Products, Enforcing Consumer Rights", was attended by representatives from civil society organizations, market associations, security agencies, and the media. Participants noted that the continued circulation of counterfeit products is causing harm to consumers and called for stronger enforcement measures to protect the public. They also commended the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for establishing the Consumer Protection Committee to tackle the issue.
Chairman of the Edo State Consumer Protection Committee, Comrade Osaro Culture Iyamu, said the recent enforcement actions by the Federal Government informed the decision to convene the stakeholders' meeting. He noted that the initiative aligns with the SHINE Agenda of the present administration in Edo State. Iyamu emphasized that all stakeholders have a critical role to play in protecting society from fake and adulterated products.
The stakeholders expressed concern over alleged abuses of consumers' rights, including excessive billing by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company and alleged overcharging by banks and telecommunication companies. They also raised concerns over the circulation of adulterated food products, such as palm oil and beans, with harmful substances. The stakeholders urged relevant authorities to intensify surveillance, public enlightenment, testing, and enforcement to protect consumers.
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, AIG Monday Agbonika, commended the Edo State Consumer Protection Committee for its efforts in the fight against counterfeit and adulterated products. He assured the committee of the police command's collaboration in arresting and prosecuting persons involved in the production and sale of fake products.
The meeting was attended by leaders of the Ekiosa Market Women, members of the United Beverages Association in Benin City, and representatives of various organizations. The stakeholders pledged their support and collaboration with the Consumer Protection Committee to ensure the success of its consumer protection mandate. They also solicited the government's support in imposing stiffer penalties on perpetrators of counterfeit and adulterated products.
The Edo State Consumer Protection Committee's efforts aim to protect consumers and build a safer society. The committee's chairman, Iyamu, assured that the government is prepared to prosecute offenders in accordance with the law. The stakeholders' meeting has highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to eradicate counterfeit and adulterated products in Edo State.
Key points
- Edo stakeholders demand stiffer penalties for producers and dealers of counterfeit and adulterated products.
- The Edo State Consumer Protection Committee has been commended for its efforts in tackling the menace of counterfeit products.
- Stakeholders have expressed concern over alleged abuses of consumers' rights, including excessive billing and overcharging.
