By Stanley Nwako
The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, has warned manufacturers and distributors of fake and adulterated food and health products in the state to desist from the practice or face prosecution.
Dr Obidike gave the warning during a meeting with the management of the Anambra State Ministry of Health, where measures to curb the production, distribution and consumption of counterfeit and adulterated products in the state were discussed.
The Commissioner said the state government is determined to protect residents from products that could endanger their health, stressing that those involved in the production or distribution of fake products would no longer be allowed to operate unchecked.
He noted that some of the health challenges becoming prevalent in the state could be linked to the consumption of fake, substandard or adulterated products by residents.
Dr Obidike warned that anyone found producing, distributing or selling such products would be made to face the full weight of the law.
He said offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the government would deploy all necessary measures to identify and stop individuals and businesses involved in the harmful practice.
The Commissioner further called on members of the public to be vigilant and report suspected cases of fake or adulterated products to the appropriate authorities.
He assured residents that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with relevant government agencies, would intensify monitoring and enforcement activities across the state.
Dr Obidike declared that the state government was coming in full force against those whose activities threatened the health and wellbeing of the people.
He said, “If you know you are producing fake or adulterated products, your days are numbered. The state government, through the Ministry of Health, is coming after you.”
The Commissioner urged residents to patronise genuine products and avoid purchasing food, drugs and other health related products from questionable sources.
