Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria Raises Alarm Over ‘Fake, Toxic’ Consumables, Accuses NAFDAC, Standards Organisation of Nigeria of Failure

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has declared what it described as a “national health emergency,” warning that Nigerians are increasingly exposed to counterfeit and potentially harmful consumables across the country.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group accused key regulatory agencies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), of failing in their statutory responsibilities.

HURIWA alleged that markets, particularly in Abuja and other major cities, have been flooded with counterfeit wines, adulterated beverages, substandard processed foods, and questionable household products.

According to the group, many of these items—ranging from imported drinks to everyday consumables—pose serious health risks to unsuspecting consumers.

The association further raised concerns over reports of chemically induced fruit ripening and the alleged counterfeiting of infant food and household staples, warning that the situation poses a threat to all segments of the population.

HURIWA linked the development to what it described as a surge in kidney-related illnesses and other chronic health conditions, particularly among younger Nigerians, attributing the trend to prolonged exposure to unsafe products.

It condemned what it termed a combination of regulatory lapses, institutional weakness, and possible collusion between some officials and unscrupulous businesses, warning that Nigeria risks becoming a dumping ground for substandard and dangerous goods.

The group called on the Federal Government to urgently overhaul the affected agencies, including leadership changes and stricter enforcement measures to dismantle networks involved in the production and distribution of fake products.

HURIWA also urged authorities to investigate and prosecute individuals found complicit in the alleged malpractice, insisting that failure to act decisively would further endanger public health.

The association referenced the regulatory reforms championed by late former NAFDAC Director-General, Dora Akunyili, as a model for restoring integrity and effectiveness in the sector.

Describing the situation as beyond routine regulatory concerns, HURIWA stressed that immediate and coordinated action is required to safeguard Nigerians and restore confidence in the country’s consumer protection systems.