The Bayelsa State government has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating prevalence of counterfeit and substandard products infiltrating local markets. This alarming trend, officials caution, is contributing to a surge in severe health issues, including liver, kidney, and lung diseases, across the state.
Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, addressed journalists in Yenagoa, emphasizing the gravity of the situation as a “serious emergency” demanding immediate attention from both government bodies and residents.
A multi-agency task force, comprising the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Health, Environmental Sanitation Authority, and the Consumer Protection Unit of the Ministry of Trade and Investment, has been mobilized to combat this menace. The government has already taken action, with arrests and prosecutions of offenders, and the safe disposal of confiscated counterfeit goods to protect public health.
The Environmental Sanitation Authority is actively pursuing legal action against individuals involved in the sale of fake drugs, beverages, and other fraudulent items. The Ministry of Environment’s routine inspections have uncovered counterfeit soft drinks, body creams, and hair relaxers, many of which are expired, in markets like Swali market.
Commissioner Koku-Obiyai, drawing upon her experience as a trained nurse, highlighted the connection between the rise in chronic diseases and the consumption/use of substandard products. She expressed concern over the increasing number of kidney and liver disease cases, even among children, attributing it to harmful chemicals found in fake drugs, soft drinks, and wines. These substances can have detrimental effects on vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and lungs. Similarly, topical products like creams, when absorbed through the skin, can directly impact the bloodstream.
Citizens are urged to exercise increased caution when shopping, paying close attention to expiry dates, NAFDAC registration numbers, product colors, and textures before making purchases. Unusually low prices compared to standard market rates should raise suspicion. Similar vigilance should be applied to bottled water, ensuring awareness of its processing methods.
The government reaffirms its commitment to curbing the spread of counterfeit products, with ongoing enforcement actions against offenders. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious items, with assurances of confidentiality.
The Commissioner emphasized the preventability of many health issues and urged residents to educate themselves and their children about the risks associated with counterfeit goods. She characterized the situation as a “red alert area,” particularly concerning products sold at prices significantly below the norm.
