....... Urges Imo People to Always Check What They Buy
In a bold move to safeguard the health and safety of consumers in Imo State, the Director General of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Hon. Dr. (Mrs) Obioma Okafor, led the destruction of substandard, counterfeit, and expired goods valued in millions of naira.
The exercise, which took place today, 27th May, 2025 saw piles of seized products including expired beverages, adulterated food items, fake cosmetics, and unwholesome drugs go up in flames under the supervision of the CPC enforcement team.
Dr. Okafor, while addressing newsmen at the site, expressed deep concern over the alarming rate at which fake and expired products flood the markets in the state. She lamented that many unsuspecting consumers fall victim to greedy and unpatriotic merchants who prioritise profit over public safety.
“This destruction exercise is a clear statement that Imo CPC will not tolerate the circulation of harmful goods. We are committed to protecting consumers from health risks and economic losses. These items were seized after thorough market surveillance and investigative operations carried out across several local government areas,” she stated.
The CPC boss also issued a strong warning to traders and manufacturers dealing in fake, expired, or substandard products, stating that the full weight of the law would be brought upon them. She called for increased vigilance from the public, urging Imo residents to always examine expiry dates, manufacturer details, and certification marks before purchasing any item.
“Our people must learn to check what they buy. It is their right to demand quality and safety. The Council is here to enforce those rights, but we also need the cooperation of the public to report suspicious products and unethical practices,” she added.
Dr. Okafor further appealed to market unions and retailers to partner with CPC by self-regulating their goods and educating their members about consumer safety standards.
The exercise, described by many as timely and impactful, reaffirms the Council’s commitment to creating a safer market environment and promoting consumer rights across Imo State.
0 Comments