Anti-Piracy group partners Anambra Govt on sensitization campaign to combat fake products

By Ukpa Ewa

The Anti-Piracy Society of Nigeria (APSON), in collaboration with Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo and the Anambra State Ministry of Health, has flagged off a state wide sensitization campaign to combat the proliferation of fake and adulterated products in Anambra State.

The event, which took place at ASUBEB Hall in Awka, brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the dangers posed by counterfeit goods to consumer health and the economy.

In his address, the Director General of APSON, Frank Uduonu, described the campaign as a crucial step in changing the narrative of consumer safety in the state and beyond.

He said fake and adulterated products have become a scourge, threatening the wellbeing of citizens. According to him, such illicit goods not only damage the economy but also undermine public trust in systems and institutions.

“It is imperative that collective action is taken to combat this menace and ensure that consumers are protected,” he said.

Speaking on the theme: “Say No to Fake, Yes to Originality, Save a Consumer Today,” Uduonu urged consumers to remain vigilant, demand quality and reject fake products. He also called on stakeholders, government agencies, regulatory bodies, manufacturers, distributors and the general public to join hands with APSON to raise awareness and fight the circulation of counterfeit goods.

“In a society where economic challenges are prevalent and shortcuts are often seen as the way out, it is important we promote APSON’s mission to rid our society of fake and adulterated products,” he said.

He appreciated the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, and his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, for their leadership and support, stating that their commitment to the welfare and development of citizens is commendable.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of Consumer and Business Education at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Chukwujekwu Echezona, described APSON as a non-governmental organization operating under the FCCPC. He encouraged the creation of consumer awareness clubs in nursery, primary and secondary schools to teach children how to identify fake and substandard products.

He revealed that over 500 consumer complaints had been handled this year alone and stressed the importance of proper labeling, NAFDAC registration, and educating consumers to check product details such as expiry dates and language of instruction before making purchases.

A legal practitioner, Barr. Amaka Ezeno, in her contributions to the sensitization efforts, advised consumers to always document cases of counterfeit goods.

“Most times, consumers have genuine complaints but no evidence. Take photos, videos and collect receipts even for small items,” she advised.

She noted that many buyers are often in a hurry and don’t take time to inspect what they were purchasing. She added that sellers of counterfeit goods usually have original versions on standby and are quick to replace them if challenged.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Odogwu Emeka, PhD, called for synergy among regulatory agencies and pledged the support of the media to ensure continuous sensitization across the state.

While Anambra State Woman Leader of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Mrs. Esther Onyekesi, who was also present, commended the initiative. She noted that fake products, including drinking water and common drugs like paracetamol, have become a widespread issue.

She appealed to the government to support APSON in taking the campaign to all markets and communities.

She also advised women and children to always check product content, expiry dates and manufacturer information before consumption.

The event was attended by the Permanent Secretary State Ministry of Lands Barr. Nkiru Mokwe, representatives from the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force, Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ministry of Youth Development, Anambra State Town Unions Council and Lady Organizers.