RismadarVoice Reporters
November 3, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has called for stricter enforcement of consumer protection regulations to curb the sale and distribution of expired, adulterated and unsafe products across the state.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, Selinah Ukpatu, during a plenary session.
Presenting the motion, Ukpatu expressed concern over reports of expired and potentially harmful products being sold in supermarkets, retail shops and open markets.
She warned that inadequate inspections, weak enforcement and improper disposal of expired goods could expose consumers to serious health risks, particularly children, older people and other vulnerable groups.
The lawmaker stressed that protecting public health and consumer rights required coordinated action by government agencies, regulators, businesses and consumers.
She urged relevant authorities to strengthen inspections, enforce existing regulations and impose appropriate sanctions on individuals and businesses found violating consumer protection laws.
Following deliberations, the Assembly called on the state government, through the Ministries of Health and Commerce and Industry, to intensify routine and unannounced inspections of commercial outlets.
The lawmakers also urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to strengthen surveillance and enforcement against unsafe and substandard products.
The House demanded the immediate withdrawal and safe disposal of expired products identified during inspections, alongside appropriate legal action against offenders.
It further recommended accessible complaint channels through which residents could report suspicious products for investigation.
The Assembly also called for sustained public awareness campaigns to educate consumers on checking expiry dates, identifying unsafe products and reporting suspected violations.
Ukpatu linked the proposed measures to Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which includes improving healthcare and residents’ welfare.
The motion was seconded by the member representing Uyo State Constituency, Uwemedimo Asuquo.
The Speaker, Udeme Otong, subsequently directed the Clerk, Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the Assembly’s resolutions to the relevant government authorities.
The House also mandated its Committee on Health to engage regulatory agencies, monitor compliance and report its findings to the legislature.
The Assembly adjourned plenary until Thursday, November 12, 2026, at noon.
The resolutions represent legislative recommendations and oversight directives; their implementation will depend on subsequent action by the responsible government agencies.
