SON Destroys N2b Substandard Goods

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The Director-General of Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Joseph Odumodu, says his agency has, so far, destroyed sub-standard products such as tyres, cables and electronics worth N2billion since the launch of its zero tolerance policy last year.

Dr. Odumodu also said the agency has sealed over 50 firms involved in illegal businesses, adding that 80 per cent of the substandard products are manufactured in China

He described Nigeria as an import-dependent economy, adding that with such rating, the country remains the highest in the world that patronises substandard products.

The SON boss said most Nigerian importers should be blamed for dumping substandard products in the country because they tell the manufacturers to lower the standard in order to cut costs and maximise their gains.

He said Nigerians were part of the problems because they patronise fake and substandard products, which to them are relatively cheap.

His words: “Once you patronise a substandard product, you are indirectly killing our local industries and by extension endangering your lives and that of others.”

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He said the agency will soon celebrate 70 per cent reduction in the level of sub-standard products in the country.

The decision to reduce substandard products, he said, was informed by the organisation’s desire to build confidence in products manufactured, imported and distributed in Nigeria for the overall benefit of the economy and welfare of the people.

He assured that the SON would, in the next few weeks, come up with a policy on how to detect substandard products, especially television sets and the number to call for necessary action.

Odumodu listed other measures as the establishment of a desk in some major markets where Nigerians can go immediately to cross check the genuineness of products in circulation, saying the agency could do better with more public awareness and enforcement for compliance with required standards.

He said the agency has not been able to prosecute anybody because of the absence of an enabling law as its enforcement bill was still pending at the National Assembly.

Odumodu advised Nigerians to always look out for the composition, expiry date and other necessary features while buying any products and if in doubt, should report to the agency.

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