Dangerous products : SON talks tough, destroys large quantities of substandard tyres, steel doors, spark plugs, items worth millions of Naira

Dangerous products :
SON talks tough, destroys large quantities of substandard tyres, steel doors, spark plugs, items worth millions of Naira
…As Dr. Okeke harps on prioritising safety of Nigerians

The Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke FCA, ACTI, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to public safety and consumer protection, as he fearlessly destroyed large quantities of substandard products worth millions of Naira.

The products destroyed in the open before Journalists and other government agencies included stuffed tyres, steel doors, spark plugs, among others, which were found to be substandard and posed serious risks to the health and safety of Nigerians.

The exercise, which took place today, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in SON’s Terminal, at Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, was transparently carried out, as all seized substandard products that failed baseline tests were completed destroyed, leaving no stone unturned.

Addressing Newsmen at the destruction site, Dr. Chukwunonso Okeke, who appeared resolute and undeterred in his determination to curb influx of fake and substandard products into Nigerian markets, said the destruction exercise demonstrates SON’s commitment to ensuring compliance with standards and protecting consumers.

His exact words :  “It is with great commitment and responsibility that I address you today, as we undertake an essential step in ensuring the safety and well-being of every Nigerian citizen.

“Today, we gather here, to witness the destruction of substandard products that have been seized by Standards Organisation of Nigeria. This action is not just an administrative formality; it is an affirmation of our unwavering commitment to public safety, consumer protection, and the promotion of fair-trade practices in Nigeria.

“As you are aware, the products we are destroying today – stuffed tyres, steel doors, and spark plugs – were found to be substandard and posed serious risks to the health and safety of Nigerians.”

He frowned : “Substandard tyres can cause devastating accidents on our roads, unsafe steel doors compromise the security of our homes and businesses, and faulty spark plugs can lead to engine failures, causing inconvenience and further potential hazards.”

The SON DG pointed out : “The destruction of these substandard products aligns directly with our mandate as outlined in the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act No. 14 of 2015. Under this Act, SON is vested with the authority to regulate and enforce product standards to ensure that only safe, quality, and certified products are available for use by Nigerian consumers.

“This is part of our broader effort to protect Nigerian consumers from harmful and counterfeit products. As an agency, we take our responsibility seriously, and today’s action is a clear demonstration of our resolve to rid the market of dangerous, unregulated goods that undermine the safety, health, and security of our citizens”.

He emphasised : “By taking decisive action, we are reinforcing the importance of adherence to product quality standards in Nigeria. Manufacturers, importers, and vendors must understand that the safety and welfare of the Nigerian public will always come first.

“This is a firm reminder to all stakeholders in Nigerian markets – from producers to consumers – that SON will continue to ensure that substandard goods do not have a place in our country. We are dedicated to making Nigeria’s markets safer and more reliable.

“Today’s event is not just about the destruction of a few products. It is a clear message to all who seek to undermine public safety and disrupt the integrity of the markets. SON will not relent in its duty.

“We will continue to identify, seize, and destroy substandard products, holding accountable those who seek to endanger the lives of Nigerians.

” I want to use this opportunity to commend the diligent efforts of the Inspectorate and Compliance Department and all SON officials who work tirelessly to ensure that our markets remain safe and that the products we use meet the highest standards. We also appreciate the support and cooperation of law enforcement agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Customs Service, and other relevant authorities in the fight against substandard products.

“To the public, I urge you, always demand certified, quality products. Together, we can ensure that the Nigerian markets are free from the dangers of substandard goods.

“Finally, I reaffirm our commitment as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria to continue enforcing our mandate, upholding the law, and prioritizing the safety and well-being of every Nigerian.”