The Senate has begun legislative consideration of a bill seeking tougher sanctions against the manufacture, sale and distribution of counterfeit drugs and unsafe food products, proposing up to 15 years’ imprisonment for offenders. The amendment also prescribes stiffer fines and additional penalties, particularly in cases where fake products result in loss of lives or serious health complications.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Suleiman Umar Sadiq, passed second reading and seeks to amend the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act of 2004. The bill aims to update existing laws to address emerging methods used by offenders, including the use of digital platforms and other modern channels to circulate fake pharmaceutical products and consumables.
During the debate, lawmakers expressed concern over the growing threat posed by counterfeit medicines and contaminated food, noting that the trend has contributed to rising cases of kidney failure, liver disease and other health complications. They argued that stronger legal measures would support regulatory agencies in tackling the menace more effectively.
The Senate, however, stressed the need to avoid overlapping the statutory responsibilities of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), saying relevant stakeholders would be consulted before the bill is passed. A public hearing has been scheduled to obtain input from NAFDAC and other interested parties to ensure the proposed amendments strengthen consumer protection without creating implementation conflicts.
