Reporter : UCHE NDEKE
The Anambra State House of Assembly has called for stronger collaboration among government ministries, regulatory agencies and industry stakeholders to curb the circulation of fake, adulterated, expired and substandard products in the state.The call followed a motion sponsored by the Majority Leader, Mr Ikenna Ofodeme, and supported by other lawmakers during plenary.Mr Ofodeme expressed concern that counterfeit products, including food, beverages, medical products and building materials, posed serious threats to public health, safety and the economic well-being of residents.He urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to direct relevant ministries to collaborate with federal and state regulatory agencies to strengthen enforcement of product standards and protect consumers.Supporting the motion, the member representing Anambra West Constituency, Mr Patrick Udeoba; his Orumba South counterpart, Mr Emmanuel Nwafor; and the member representing Dunukofia Constituency, Mr Chuks Azotani, highlighted the dangers of counterfeit products, particularly fake drugs.The lawmakers described the issue as a matter of urgent public importance, stressing that protecting lives and ensuring consumer safety remained critical responsibilities of government.The Speaker of the House, Mr Somtochukwu Udeze, said the problem required practical legislative and enforcement measures beyond the presentation of motions.Ruling on the motion, Mr Udeze stressed the need for effective monitoring, inspection and surveillance of markets and commercial centres across the state.