The House of Representatives urged the Attorney-General of the Federation to propose stiffer sanctions, including life imprisonment, for producers and importers of fake drugs in a bid to combat the menace of fake drugs in Nigeria.
This resolution was reached after the adoption of a motion sponsored by Tolani Shagaya, an All Progressives Congress lawmaker, who expressed concern over the alarming increase in the production, importation, and distribution of fake and substandard goods, drugs, food, and beverages across Nigeria.
According to Shagaya, the development poses significant threats to public health, national security, and the economic stability of the nation. He cited the World Health Organization and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, which have repeatedly warned that Nigeria is one of the most affected countries in the world by counterfeit medicines.
The lawmaker also mentioned that NAFDAC recently seized counterfeit food and pharmaceutical products worth over ₦5 billion in a raid at the Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State. This highlights the widespread nature of this menace and the need for urgent action.
The House is concerned that Nigeria suffers economic losses of approximately ₦15 trillion annually due to counterfeit and substandard goods. The unchecked proliferation of fake products not only jeopardizes consumer safety but also discourages genuine investment in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
To address this issue, the House has urged the Federal Government to strengthen the capacity of regulatory agencies, particularly NAFDAC, SON, and the Nigerian Customs Service. They have also called for the establishment of a special task force to fast-track investigations and prosecution of individuals and businesses involved in counterfeiting.
The House has directed its Committees on Health, Commerce, and Industry to conduct a comprehensive probe into the prevalence of counterfeit products. They are expected to propose legislative measures to address regulatory gaps and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
In a bid to provide sufficient deterrence, the House has proposed life imprisonment for those involved in the production and importation of fake drugs. Significant fines are also proposed for businesses found guilty of dealing in counterfeit goods. This move is expected to curb the menace of fake drugs in Nigeria and protect the health and well-being of its citizens.
