The traditional ruler of Uzi-Amizi autonomous community in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, HRH Eze Cyril Ogbenna, has sounded the alarm about the prevalence of counterfeit honey flooding Nigerian markets. Speaking from his palace in Uzi-Amizi, Eze Ogbenna, an octogenarian and former honey harvester, revealed that many unscrupulous marketers are filling containers with fake honey made from fermented sugar and other harmful additives, even going as far as topping the bottles with dead bees to deceive consumers.

In commemoration of the 2024 World Consumer Rights Day, Eze Ogbenna highlighted the dangers of consuming fake honey, emphasizing its potential to harm vital organs in the human body. He urged those involved in this illicit trade to cease their activities to prevent further harm to unsuspecting consumers.

The monarch also shed light on other deceptive practices in the marketplace, including the sale of worn and defective goods, counterfeit products, false advertising, and the use of substandard products. He called upon regulatory bodies such as NAFDAC, the Federal Ministry of Health, SON, the National Codex Committee, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and the CPC to take action against manufacturers of adulterated honey, noting that their actions have led to the premature deaths of many Nigerians.

Eze Ogbenna stressed the medicinal properties of natural honey, emphasizing that only God and the bees understand the intricate chemistry behind its creation. He underscored the importance of World Consumer Rights Day in advocating for fair treatment of consumers and ensuring access to high-quality products at reasonable prices.

As concerns grow over the proliferation of counterfeit honey in Nigerian markets, Eze Ogbenna’s call to action resonates globally, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and regulatory oversight to protect consumers from harmful products. Let us join hands in safeguarding consumer rights and promoting a marketplace where honesty and integrity prevail.