The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) arraigned a businessman, Chinedu Okafor, in Lagos on Friday. The 40-year-old, operating under the name ‘Sky Blue Company,’ stands accused of producing fake aromatic Schnapps and fruit juice wines.
Okafor faces an eight-count charge that includes manufacturing, dealing, selling, and distributing unwholesome processed food. The prosecution, led by A. Ali, detailed that Okafor was apprehended on April 26 at his residence on 1st MTN Road, Badagry, Lagos, where he was allegedly producing Apple Multi Fruit Juice Wine, Eagle Aromatic Schnapps, and Lord’s Gin.
The court heard that Okafor distributed these counterfeit products without proper registration, violating several sections of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs Unwholesome Processed Foods Act and the Food and Drugs Act, 2004.
Okafor, who appeared without legal representation, pleaded not guilty to all charges. In response, the prosecution requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant to the correctional centre pending the trial’s outcome.
Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa ordered Okafor’s remand and set the trial to commence on July 10, 2024. This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat the distribution of fake and potentially dangerous consumables.
NAFDAC’s actions underscore their commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring only genuine and safe products reach consumers. The agency continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activities related to food and drug production.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case against Okafor will serve as a critical test of the legal frameworks designed to protect consumers from fraudulent and harmful products.
