NAFDAC counterfeit alcohol Lagos case as trader is arraigned and remanded over alleged production and sale of fake drinks

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has arraigned a Lagos-based trader, Chidera Chukwuka, before the Federal High Court in Lagos over alleged manufacture and distribution of counterfeit alcoholic beverages.

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Chukwuka, 30, appeared before Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa on a six-count charge bordering on unlawful possession, production and sale of unwholesome processed alcoholic products.

The NAFDAC counterfeit alcohol Lagos case involves alleged fake versions of popular brands, including Johnnie Walker Red Label, Flirt Vodka, Lords Gin London Dry and Gordon’s Dry Gin.

At the proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Isa Ali, urged the court to read the charges to the defendant, who subsequently pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Following the plea, the prosecution applied for a trial date and requested that the defendant be remanded in custody pending trial.

As there was no legal representation or counter-application on behalf of the defendant, the court ordered that Chukwuka be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The matter was adjourned to June 1, 2026, for the commencement of trial.

According to the charge marked FHC/L/279C/26, the defendant was allegedly found on April 14, 2026, at Apongbon, Lagos Island, in possession of unwholesome alcoholic products.

NAFDAC further alleged that the products were manufactured and packaged in a misleading manner to suggest authenticity and safety, in violation of provisions of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act and the Food, Drugs and Related Products Act.

One of the counts accuses the defendant of producing unregistered processed products, while others relate to distribution and display for sale within Lagos State.

If proven, the offences carry penalties under the applicable laws.

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The NAFDAC counterfeit alcohol Lagos prosecution underscores ongoing regulatory efforts to combat the circulation of fake and potentially harmful consumer products in Nigeria’s markets.