Fake products flood Nigerian markets As NAFDAC, SON face public backlash

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) have come under intense pressure as Nigerians increasingly turn to social media to expose counterfeit food, drugs, cosmetics and other consumer goods, according to a report by The PUNCH.

The online campaign gained momentum following recent celebrity deaths, including that of veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan (Ogogo), fuelling public concern over links between counterfeit products and sudden deaths.

Viral videos have exposed suspected fake Oral-B toothpaste, Hollandia yoghurt, paracetamol tablets, palm oil, and other staples, with doctors and content creators amplifying warnings.

Critics, including lawyers and public affairs analysts, accused NAFDAC and SON of weak enforcement, with some calling for a state of emergency on counterfeit goods and an overhaul of the agencies’ leadership. Medical experts warned that counterfeit products contribute to liver failure, kidney damage and other serious health complications.

NAFDAC’s Head of Enforcement, Dr Martin Iluyomade, declined to comment, while SON referred inquiries back to NAFDAC. Recent NAFDAC operations have uncovered billions of naira worth of fake pharmaceuticals nationwide.