A viral social media post by Nigerian academic and public commentator Dr. Dípò Awójídé has ignited intense public discourse around the growing menace of counterfeit consumables in Nigeria.
In a strongly worded statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Awójídé condemned the sale of fake drinks, medicines, and beverages, especially those targeted at children, calling for extreme punitive measures against perpetrators.
His comments, though controversial, reflect mounting frustration among Nigerians over the health risks posed by counterfeit products. Awójídé urged regulatory bodies, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), to intensify efforts in combating the proliferation of fake consumables.
In a follow-up, Awójídé advised consumers to destroy empty bottles of popular alcoholic brands such as Casamingos, Glen CRU, Martell, Jack Daniels, Jameson Black Barrel, Hennessy, and Macallan after use, arguing that doing so could help curb the circulation of counterfeit versions.
He concluded with a stark warning: “They don’t want you to see this post or engage with it. They don’t want you to talk about it either. But your mother or father might be the next victim. Will you be silent?”
The post has since sparked widespread reactions, with many Nigerians echoing concerns over the health implications of fake products and demanding greater accountability from regulatory agencies.
Public health experts have long warned that counterfeit consumables contribute to rising cases of organ failure and cancer in the country. As calls for reform grow louder, the pressure mounts on NAFDAC and SON to take decisive action.
