NAFDAC Arrests Counterfeit Cosmetics Manufacturer in Lagos

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Nigeria has arrested Pius Effiong Eyoh, the owner of Pasco Global Limited, for manufacturing, packaging, distributing, and selling a range of substandard and counterfeit cosmetic products. The illegal activities were uncovered by NAFDAC's Investigation & Enforcement Directorate at the Balogun Trade Fair Gate, Trade Fair Complex, in Lagos.

NAFDAC seized various counterfeit cosmetic products, including Skin Balance Perfect Knuckle Organic Peel Therapy and Golden Face Triple Action Concentrated Perfect Skin, which were being processed and packaged with false labels bearing French inscriptions and a Cameroonian address. "The counterfeit cosmetics featured false labels with French inscriptions and a Cameroonian address, indicating an attempt to mislead consumers about their origin and quality standards," NAFDAC stated.

The agency's intervention led to the sealing of the illegal manufacturing premises, Eyoh's arrest, and the scheduling of the substandard products for destruction. NAFDAC expressed concern over the sale of these substandard products, which pose health risks such as cancer, kidney damage, and skin rashes.

Why this matters: This operation is part of a larger crackdown by NAFDAC on counterfeit products across Nigeria. The agency recently conducted raids on popular supermarkets in Abuja, seizing a variety of counterfeit cosmetics and drugs with a total value of ₦50 million. NAFDAC's efforts aim to safeguard public health and ensure that only safe and genuine products are available in the Nigerian market.

NAFDAC's Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, reaffirmed the agency's commitment to rooting out counterfeit syndicates and protecting consumers from the dangers of substandard products. "NAFDAC will continue to take necessary measures to ensure that only safe and quality products are available to the public," Adeyeye stated. The agency urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products or illegal manufacturing activities to help combat the menace of counterfeiting in Nigeria.

Key Takeaways

• NAFDAC arrested Pius Effiong Eyoh for manufacturing counterfeit cosmetics in Lagos.
• Seized products had false French labels and Cameroonian address to mislead consumers.
• Counterfeit cosmetics pose health risks like cancer, kidney damage, and skin rashes.
• NAFDAC's crackdown aims to ensure only safe, genuine products are available in Nigeria.
• Public urged to report suspicious products or illegal activities to combat counterfeiting.