Clara Omuluzua Madubike | I-Witness News
It was the end of road for dealers in expired goods in Awka, the Anambra State Capital as the Anambra State Ministry of Environment began a widespread check and confiscation of expired goods and items in the capital city.
The Environment Commissioner, Engr. Dr Felix Odimegwu who initiated the inspection stated that the action was as a result of the growing concerns over the potential health risks and environmental impacts associated with such goods (expired products) and it’s improper disposal practices.
Dr Odimegwu reaffirmed that the administration of Prof. Charles Soludo is dedicated to safeguarding the environment and the well-being of Ndi Anambra and that he is committed to keeping the public informed of his various findings and actions
The Environmental health and pollution control personnel yesterday visited numerous retail establishments, including supermarkets, pharmacies, and local markets, to inspect, verify, and seize expired products, where they made alarming discoveries of expired consumable products, medications, and cosmetics.
The findings clearly raise serious concerns regarding adherence to environmental regulations and the impact of the practices on public health and safety.
While expressing dismay at the prevalence of expired products in the state, the Director of Environmental Health and Pollution Control Department in the ministry, Mrs. Nwankwu, stated that the presence of expired goods in markets is not just a violation of consumer trust but also a potential hazard to public health and the environment.
She revealed that the seized goods, including expired food items, medicines, and cosmetics, were documented and removed to prevent them from being sold or improperly discarded.
According to Mrs. Nwankwo who emphasized ramping up public awareness campaigns to spread knowledge about responsible disposal methods and the consequences of non-compliance, called on all consumers to always check the expiration dates on product containers before making purchases.
Continuing, Mrs. Tessy Nwafor, an environmental health officer in the Ministry stated that the Ministry was set to enhance the regulatory framework for managing the shelf life of products and enforcing compliance through stricter penalties for violations.
She warned that businesses found to be in violation of environmental guidelines will face the prospect of heavy fines and potential closure orders, as the Ministry of Environment has intensified its crackdown on non-compliance.
She urged the public to always report cases of any individual selling expired products to the nearest local government authority in the area.
