Ex-NBA Secretary Proposes Life Sentence for Counterfeiting

Adebisi Iyaniwura, the former Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, submitted a petition to the Senate on October 21, 2026, advocating for life imprisonment and a minimum fine of N20 million for aggravated counterfeiting offences. He urged the Senate Committees on Industry, Trade and Investment and Health to amend existing laws related to the production, importation, distribution, and sale of counterfeit products.

Iyaniwura expressed grave concerns about the dangers posed by counterfeit goods, which he described as a serious threat to public health, consumer safety, and national security. He highlighted the risks associated with counterfeit food items, pharmaceuticals, and automobile spare parts, warning that these products could lead to severe health complications or even death.

Iyaniwura called for tougher penalties to deter individuals and businesses involved in counterfeiting, arguing that such actions should not be treated merely as commercial fraud. His proposal includes a mandatory 10-year prison sentence for offenders and life imprisonment for the most severe cases.