The Federal High Court of Nigeria has sentenced two men to a combined total of 40 years in prison for producing and selling fake alcoholic beverages in Lagos State.
The convicted men are Otuorimuno Nelson Aziakpono, 58, and Ikegwuonu Davidson Ikechukwu, 28.
The court found them guilty of offences related to the production, possession, sale, and distribution of adulterated and unregistered alcoholic drinks within Lagos.
According to a statement by NAFDAC, the conviction followed an enforcement operation on December 3, 2025, at Kojo Street, Ijanikin, and Vespa Market, where the illegal activities were uncovered. During the operation, authorities recovered large quantities of counterfeit and unregistered alcoholic beverages.
Recovered items included fake versions of popular brands such as Hennessy, Jameson Irish Whiskey, William Lawson’s, and Gordon’s Gin.
Officials confirmed that the beverages were hazardous, misleadingly packaged, and unfit for consumption.
After their arrest, the two suspects faced eight charges, covering the possession of unwholesome products, the manufacture of counterfeit alcoholic drinks, and the sale and distribution of fake beverages, all in violation of applicable laws.
“The defendants were charged on eight counts bordering on possession of unwholesome products, manufacture and distribution of counterfeit beverages, and related offences under applicable laws,” the statement said.
The case was prosecuted by NAFDAC, which reiterated its dedication to safeguarding public health and ensuring that unsafe products do not enter the market.
NAFDAC warned that adulterated alcoholic beverages pose significant health risks to consumers and stressed that enforcement efforts will continue nationwide to combat such illegal activities.
The agency also urged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious products or activities to the nearest NAFDAC office, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital in the fight against counterfeit and harmful goods.