Gov’t seizes fake, expired goods

As part of efforts to prevent the consumption of expired food and beverages, the Edo State government has raided stores and seized substandard and adulterated goods in markets across Benin metropolis.

The traders from whom the products were seized had their stores shut to ensure that the state was safe from unwholesome commodities.

Addressing journalists in his office shortly after the exercise, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Cooperatives and Employment, Emmanuel Usoh, said the raid was aimed at curbing the activities of traders who, in their quest to make quick gains, sell substandard products to consumers during festive seasons.

“As a government, our duty is to prevent sharp practices among traders who want to make quick gains to the detriment of consumers. We have resolved to ensure that the people are not in any way exposed to fake and expired products.”

Usoh explained that some of the seized items include rice and vegetable oil, which expired in 2010, counterfeit red wine and drinks, adulterated imported and locally manufactured drinks among others.