Senate Passes Bill for Stricter Penalties on Fake Drugs

On Wednesday, the Nigerian Senate passed a bill during its second reading that seeks to impose tougher penalties and stronger enforcement against counterfeit medicines and unsafe food products. Sponsored by Senator Umar Sadiq Suleiman, the bill aims to repeal the 2004 Counterfeit and Fake Drug Act, replacing it with a modern framework that addresses technological advancements and online sales.

The proposed legislation criminalizes the import, sale, distribution, and possession of fake drugs and unwholesome food, banning their sale in markets, motor parks, roadside stalls, and unlicensed online platforms. Penalties include up to 15 years of imprisonment, heavy fines, and compensation for victims.

Corporate bodies and their directors found culpable will also face sanctions. The bill empowers NAFDAC to utilize product tracking technology and establishes a task force for inspections and seizures.

The Senate, led by President Godswill Akpabio, referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Health for further legislative work, with a report due in four weeks.