The Director General of the Consumer Protection Council in Imo State, Obioma Okafor, has cautioned residents against purchasing or consuming unlabeled and unregistered products being sold in markets across the state.
She issued the warning on Wednesday after an inspection tour of markets in Owerri, the Imo State capital, where she observed an increasing circulation of goods without proper identification or regulatory approval.
Okafor stressed that products without clear labeling, manufacturing details, or registration numbers pose serious risks to public health and safety, noting that consumers may unknowingly expose themselves to harmful substances.
She advised residents to always verify essential product information such as ingrents, usage instructions, manufacturing and expiry dates before making purchases, adding that such details are critical for informed decision making.
According to her, properly labeled products also help consumers trace manufacturers and ensure accountability in cases of defective or harmful goods.
She further warned that items without clear packaging, expiration dates, or regulatory approval from agencies such as the NAFDAC should be avoided entirely.
Okafor emphasized that patronizing unregistered products encourages illegal manufacturing practices and undermines efforts to maintain safety standards in the marketplace.
She also urged traders to comply strictly with regulatory requirements, warning that those found selling substandard or unapproved goods would face appropriate sanctions.
The CPC director reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring that only safe and approved products are allowed into circulation within Imo State.
Her warning comes amid growing concerns over the spread of counterfeit and substandard goods in markets across Nigeria, particularly in major urban centers like Owerri.
Regulatory bos have repeatedly advised Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suious products to authorities in order to safeguard public health and strengthen consumer protection efforts.
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