Lagos govt reads riot act to hospitality businesses over fake drinks
The Lagos State government has warned entertainment centres in the state against the sale and distribution of fake drinks.
Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, gave the warning in a statement via his social media page.
This, according to Aregbe, was in response to the rising concern about counterfeit drinks circulating in restaurants and clubs across the state.
He stated that the prevalence of fake drinks poses a significant threat to public health and safety, prompting intensified and coordinated efforts by his office to eradicate these substandard products from circulation.
“We call upon all clubs, restaurants, and public places where drinks are sold to exercise due diligence in ensuring they do not purchase or serve fake drinks to unsuspecting consumers,” he said.
Aregbe exuded confidence in his determination to eliminate fake drinks from the markets.
He said the state would be collaborating with Ononiwu Ezeribe, the Director of Investigation and Enforcement at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Lanre Mojola, who leads the Lagos State Safety Commission.
He warned that any entertainment centre or gathering found serving or selling fake drinks would face immediate closure with the suspension of their operating license.
He further stated that stringent measures would be taken to safeguard the well-being of residents and visitors in the state.
He made it known that the ministry is working with other relevant agencies to ensure full compliance with eradicating fake drinks.
According to Mojola, this is a laudable initiative from the SA and a furtherance of the governor’s commitment to the safety of lives.
“We urge drink manufacturers to take a proactive role in public enlightenment, guiding consumers on how to identify genuine products.
“Proper labeling, packaging, and distribution channels should be emphasised to enhance awareness and ensure the authenticity of beverages,” he said.
