By Chioma Obinna

The Federal High Court in Lagos has convicted two men for producing and distributing adulterated and unregistered alcoholic beverages, sentencing them to a combined 40-year term of imprisonment in what authorities described as a major victory against counterfeit products in the state.

The convicts, Otuorimuno Nelson Aziakpono, 58, and Ikegwuonu Davidson Ikechukwu, 28, were found guilty on eight counts bordering on the production, possession, sale, and distribution of fake alcoholic drinks.

Their conviction followed a December 3, 2025 enforcement operation carried out by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, at Kojo Street, Ijanikin, and Vespa Market in Lagos.

During the raid, officials recovered counterfeit and unregistered variants of popular international brands, including Hennessy, Jameson Irish Whiskey, William Lawson’s, and Gordon’s.

According to NAFDAC, laboratory and regulatory assessments confirmed that the products were unwholesome, misleadingly packaged, and unsafe for human consumption.

The agency said the defendants were engaged in the large-scale manufacture and distribution of adulterated beverages designed to mimic well-known brands, thereby deceiving unsuspecting consumers and endangering public health.

Reacting to the judgment, NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians from harmful and counterfeit products.

“This conviction sends a strong warning to those involved in the production and sale of adulterated alcoholic beverages. The health and safety of Nigerians cannot be compromised,” the agency stated.

NAFDAC further warned that fake alcoholic drinks pose serious health risks, including poisoning, organ damage, and even death, urging members of the public to remain vigilant.

“The Agency will continue to intensify enforcement actions nationwide. We encourage the public to report suspicious products or activities to the nearest NAFDAC office,” it added.

The judgment is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts to clamp down on counterfeit food and beverage syndicates operating across the country.