The Akwa Ibom House of Assembly has called on the state government to strengthen regulatory measures against sale and distribution of expired, adulterated and unsafe consumer products across the state.
The call followed a motion moved by a member representing Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, Mrs Selinah Ukpatu, during plenary on Tuesday in Uyo.
Presenting the motion, Ukpatu expressed concern over reports of expired products being sold in supermarkets, open markets and shops across the state.
She said that inadequate inspections, weak enforcement and poor disposal practices exposed unsuspecting consumers, particularly children, the elderly and other vulnerable groups, to preventable health hazards.
‘’Protecting public health and consumer rights remain a fundamental responsibility of government, ‘’ the member said.
She stressed the need for regular inspections, strict enforcement of relevant regulations, appropriate sanctions against offenders and sustained public enlightenment to safeguard consumers.
According to her, the ARISE Agenda of Gov. Umo Eno prioritises the health and welfare of the people.
‘’This makes it imperative for relevant government agencies to intensify efforts to ensure that only safe and quality products were sold in the state, ‘’ Ukpatu said.
In support of the motion, the House urged the state government to intensify routine and unannounced inspections of supermarkets, shops and open markets to prevent the sale of expired products.
The lawmakers also called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to strengthen surveillance and enforcement to curb the menace.
The House further mandated its Committee on Health to engage relevant agencies, monitor compliance and report back to the legislature.
Also, the Speaker, Mr Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the resolutions to the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem John for necessary action.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the House also held a valedictory sitting in honour of late Asuquo Utin.
Late Utin represented Offi/Eweme State Constituency in the First Akwa Ibom Assembly from January 1991 to November 1992.
NAN reports that Utin was the first Minority Leader of the House under the National Republican Convention (NRC) and hailed from Okobo Local Government Area of the state.
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