The Imo State Consumer Protection Council CPC has issued a strong warning to residents of the state to be vigilant against the circulation and consumption of fake, substandard, and expired products during the ongoing festive period.
The Director General of the Council, Hon. (Dr.) Mrs. Obioma Okafor, gave the warning in Owerri while addressing the rising influx of goods into markets across the state as traders seek to meet increased consumer demand associated with the festivities.
According to her, festive periods often witness a surge in sharp practices by unscrupulous traders who take advantage of the high demand for food items, drinks, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and household products to flood the markets with counterfeit and expired goods.
Okafor stated that the consumption of such products poses serious health risks and could lead to food poisoning, long term illnesses, and in severe cases, loss of lives. She stressed that the Council would not tolerate any act that endangers the safety and wellbeing of Imo consumers.
“The festive season should be a time of joy and celebration, not a period of sorrow caused by avoidable health hazards. We are therefore calling on all consumers to be extra cautious, check expiry dates, look out for proper labelling, and avoid suspiciously cheap products,” she said.
The CPC boss further disclosed that the Council has intensified market surveillance, inspection exercises, and enforcement operations across major markets, shops, and distribution centres in the state.
She warned that traders found dealing in fake, adulterated, or expired products would face stiff sanctions in accordance with the law.
She also urged business owners and producers of goods and services to uphold ethical standards by ensuring that only genuine, safe, and approved products are offered for sale to the public, noting that consumer trust remains vital to sustainable business growth.
Okafor encouraged residents to report any suspected cases of fake or expired products to the Consumer Protection Council for prompt action, assuring the public that all complaints would be treated with confidentiality and urgency.
She reaffirmed the Council’s commitment, under the administration of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, to protecting consumer rights and promoting a safe and fair marketplace in Imo State.
“As a Council under the Ministry of Trade and Investment, we will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard the health, rights, and welfare of consumers, especially during periods when they are most vulnerable,” she added.
The Imo State Consumer Protection Council advised residents to prioritise their safety and wellbeing by purchasing goods from reputable outlets and remaining alert throughout the festive season.
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