The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has warned that Nigerians are being systematically exposed to a deadly wave of counterfeit, adulterated and toxic consumables, while regulatory agencies charged with protecting public health appear paralysed, compromised or negligent.

HURIWA stated that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) have failed in their statutory responsibilities, allowing Nigeria’s markets to degenerate into a free-for-all for fake products and dangerous goods.

“Across Abuja and major cities, evidence abounds of a frightening infiltration of counterfeit wines, adulterated beverages, substandard processed foods and questionable household items. What should be basic consumables have now become potential instruments of slow poisoning. Reports indicate that a vast majority of so-called imported wines are fake, while even widely consumed soft drinks are being illicitly reproduced and sold to unsuspecting Nigerians.

“Even more alarming are widespread allegations that fruits are chemically induced to ripen using hazardous substances, while infant foods and household staples—once trusted—are now being counterfeited at scale. The implication is chilling: no Nigerian is safe—not even infants,” HURIWA said.

Consequently, HURIWA, through its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, warned that the country is already witnessing the consequences of this regulatory failure.

According to the group, hospitals are recording a surge in kidney-related diseases and other chronic conditions, increasingly affecting younger populations.

“This is not coincidental—it is the predictable outcome of a system that has abandoned its duty to protect public health,” it added.

HURIWA warned that Nigeria is becoming a dumping ground for fake, substandard and potentially lethal products.

The group demanded immediate and sweeping action by the Federal Government, including a comprehensive overhaul of NAFDAC and SON.

It also called for the removal of ineffective leadership, the installation of reform-driven professionals and the deployment of aggressive enforcement strategies to dismantle the networks behind the trade.

The association urged a return to the regulatory approach exemplified by Dora Akunyili.

HURIWA further insisted that those found complicit, whether in the public or private sector, must face immediate investigation and prosecution, stating that any lesser response would endanger lives.

“This is no longer a regulatory issue; it is a national emergency. Nigerians deserve safe food, safe medicines and a system that protects rather than endangers them. The time for complacency is over. The time for decisive action is now,” it added.