The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched a decisive crackdown on expired and rebagged rice being sold at Utako Market in Abuja, following credible intelligence reports.
During the operation, officials discovered that some traders were rebagging local rice into branded foreign sacks and even reselling expired rice, some allegedly dating as far back as 2015, under the guise of popular imported brands.
Serious Consumer Violation
Speaking during the raid, Boladele Adeyinka, FCCPC’s Director of Surveillance and Investigation, described the act as a grave offence under the FCCPC Act, noting that offenders will face severe penalties, fines, and possible prosecution.
“The appetite for foreign rice brands has led to deceptive practices. Traders are exploiting consumers by rebagging local rice into imported sacks and selling expired stock from nearly a decade ago,” Adeyinka stated.
Fake Branding, Expired Stock Flooding Markets
Among the affected brands are Royal Stallion and Mama Gold rice, both of which have been banned in Nigeria since 2014. Yet, these names continue to flood local markets, deceiving buyers into paying premium prices for low-quality or expired goods.
The FCCPC further revealed that some companies involved in producing fake branded bags are also under investigation and will be visited in due course.
Warning to Consumers
The commission has issued a strong consumer advisory warning Nigerians to avoid purchasing Royal Stallion, Mama Gold, or any suspiciously repackaged rice, especially from open markets. These products pose serious health and safety risks and violate consumer rights.
Market Leaders React
Igwemma Alex, Secretary of the Utako Market, claimed ignorance of the illegal activities taking place within the market but expressed concern over the FCCPC’s approach, stating that the market management should have been formally notified before the raid.
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Despite that, the FCCPC insists that consumer safety and public health must come first, and it will continue to pursue those violating food safety laws.
Naija Blog Daily will keep you updated on further developments from the FCCPC food safety operations and guide you on how to identify safe and authentic food products in the Nigerian market.
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