Deadly Counterfeits: Nigeria's Fake Drink Epidemic Claims Lives"
In Nigeria, the consumption of counterfeit and substandard beverages has led to devastating consequences. In 2021, at least 10 people lost their lives and 50 others suffered from severe kidney-related illnesses after consuming fake juices in Kano State. The fake beverages caused significant harm to vital organs, particularly the kidneys. This incident was confirmed by the state's Commissioner for Health, Ibrahim Tsanyawa, who emphasized the importance of avoiding counterfeit products.
Similarly, in 2023, eight people died and 11 were critically ill after consuming unauthorized alcoholic drinks in Ogun State . Dr. Tomi Coker, the state's Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, warned against the consumption of locally brewed and unapproved products, highlighting their serious health risks.
Nigeria's counterfeit drinks industry is vast, with counterfeiters producing fake versions of wines, spirits, and soft drinks. To combat this, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has been conducting raids and seizures. In December 2023, NAFDAC seized and destroyed counterfeit beverages worth N750 million in the South-East. They also raided over 240 illegal shops in Abia State, where counterfeit products were being produced under unhygienic conditions using harmful chemicals.
In Lagos State, NAFDAC reported the seizure of over N500 million worth of counterfeit drinks as of September 2024. Several raids were conducted, including one in Badagry in May 2024, which uncovered fake Hennessy drinks and led to the arrest of a suspect. Further raids in Oko-Arin Market on Lagos Island in June and August 2024 exposed illegal production of various alcoholic beverages, with over 2,000 cartons of counterfeit drinks seized.
Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the continued consumption of counterfeit products, particularly during the festive season when demand for readily available goods increases.
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