Ukpa Ewa
The Anti-Piracy Society of Nigeria (APSON) has launched a state-wide sensitization campaign against proliferation of fake and adulterated products in Anambra State.
APSON organized the campaign in collaboration with Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo and the Anambra State Ministry of Health.
The event in Awka, attracted key stakeholders from various sectors who discuss the dangers of counterfeit goods to consumer health and the economy.
APSON Director General, Frank Uduonu, said the campaign crucially aims to change the narrative of consumer safety in the state and beyond.
He appreciated Governor Soludo and his wife, Nonye Soludo for the support that has made the programme possible.
Uduonu described fake and adulterated products as 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 we take collective action to combat this menace and protect consumers,” 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 solicited cooperation of stakeholders, government agencies, regulatory bodies, manufacturers, distributors and the general public with APSON in fighting circulation of counterfeit goods.
“We are in a society where economic challenges are prevalent and people often see shortcuts as the way out.
“It is important we promote APSON’s mission to rid our society of fake and adulterated products.
500 complaints in 2025
In a remark, 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 help children identify fake and substandard products.
Echezona revealed that the Commissioner has handled over 500 consumer complaints this year alone.
He stressed the importance of proper labeling, NAFDAC registration, and consumer education on product details such as expiry dates before purchase.
A legal practitioner, Amaka Ezeno, 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.
Buyers in a hurry
Ezeno 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.
He equally pledged the support of the media to ensure continuous sensitization across the state.
Anambra State Woman Leader of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Mrs. Esther Onyekesi, commended the initiative, noting that fake products are a growing concern.
She appealed to the government to support APSON in taking the campaign to all markets and communities.
The event attracted government officials, representatives of the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Nigeria Police Force.
Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ministry of Youth Development, Anambra State Town Unions Council and Lady Organizers were also present.
