Senate passes bill to strengthen laws against counterfeit drugs and fake foods
The Senate passed for second reading a bill aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s legal framework against counterfeit medical products, fake drugs and unwholesome processed foods. Sponsor Sadiq Suleiman (APC‑Kwara North) said the bill seeks to repeal the 2004 Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act, ban toxic substances used to speed fruit ripening, and review penalties for hawking drugs, poison and other food products. Under the proposal, offenders could face up to 15 years’ imprisonment, heavy fines and mandatory compensation if counterfeit goods cause death or grievous harm. Courts would gain powers to order asset forfeiture, seize offending premises and fast‑track trials, while NAFDAC remains the lead enforcement agency backed by new national and state task forces for intelligence sharing.
Senators Samson Ekong (APC‑Akwa Ibom South) and Adams Oshiomhole (APC‑Edo North) warned that fake drugs enrich casket makers through preventable deaths and contribute to kidney disease and organ failure, urging the law to protect every Nigerian family. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin backed the bill but urged a clear link with the existing NAFDAC Act to avoid duplicated responsibilities. The bill was approved by voice vote and referred to the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) for public hearing.
For Nigerians, the legislation means stricter penalties for fake drugs and unsafe foods, and a clearer route to report suspicious products to NAFDAC. Knowing that hawking medicines in markets or online will attract heavy penalties, citizens are encouraged to buy medicines only from licensed pharmacies and to report suspected counterfeits to protect public health.