The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has initiated a vigorous pursuit of producers responsible for manufacturing counterfeit television sets, spurred by a widely circulated video exposing fraudulent practices at Lagos State’s Alaba International Market. This development highlights a significant concern for consumers seeking genuine electronic products. The viral video, which depicted numerous television cartons bearing well-known brand names, raised serious allegations of locally assembled fake goods being passed off as originals. An unidentified man in the clip detailed how some traders at Alaba were allegedly involved in printing popular television brand logos onto fraudulently assembled sets, deceiving unsuspecting buyers. He specifically mentioned LG and Hisense labels being applied to cartons and televisions that were reportedly fake and produced within Alaba, making them appear genuine through meticulous branding on cartons, remotes, and the sets themselves. The narrator claimed to have visited a shop containing over 3,000 of these allegedly fake, yet branded, television sets, suggesting a large-scale operation. He explained that these operations involved requesting low-quality televisions from Chinese manufacturers and then applying counterfeit branding, a practice that undermines consumer trust and market integrity. The Standards Organisation of Nigeria, through its Press Liaison Officer Angela Okisor, confirmed that the agency has actively begun tracking the individuals behind these deceptive practices. Okisor stated on Friday that SON is collaborating closely with security operatives to conduct high-level investigations into the matter. “We are tracking the stuff. We are working with the union to sort it out. We are working with security operatives on it. We are working at a high level,” Okisor assured, indicating a determined effort to curb this illicit trade. This revelation has drawn widespread condemnation from Nigerians, with many expressing concern over the alleged production of fake television sets in the Alaba market. Ajayi Damilola, a resident of Alaba, acknowledged that both authentic and counterfeit items are prevalent in the market, urging consumers to exercise extreme caution. “In Alaba, there is nothing you can’t find. Fake products are repackaged like originals, so you have to be very careful when buying things there,” he advised, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Another resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, echoed these sentiments, noting that purchasing electronics in the market requires considerable shrewdness to avoid falling victim to fake products. A prominent X user, Daniel Regha, strongly condemned the practice, arguing that the issue is not just about local production but rebranding cheaper versions, which he deemed even more deceitful. He advised buyers to purchase from trusted distributors and verify product authenticity using serial numbers. “They are getting a cheap version/brand, and then imprint another brand on the package. Unfortunately, not everyone can tell the difference. This is why it’s good to buy from a trusted distributor or dealer only, and when you get such a device, use the serial numbers to confirm by contacting the brand or via reliable online websites.” Regha also highlighted that this problem extends beyond electronics to pharmaceuticals and food products. User @YesItsBash commented that these fake TVs have been in circulation for some time and are usually identifiable by their packaging, remote controls, menu interfaces, and pricing, provided the buyer is observant. What is the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) doing about fake TV sets? The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has begun tracking producers of fake television sets and is collaborating with security operatives to conduct high-level investigations following a viral video exposing these practices. The ongoing investigations by SON aim to identify and apprehend those involved in the fraudulent assembly and branding of counterfeit electronics, thereby protecting consumers from substandard products and upholding market integrity. The involvement of unions and security agencies underscores the seriousness with which SON is treating this issue. This situation underscores the critical importance of consumer awareness and the role of regulatory bodies like SON in ensuring product quality and safety within the Nigerian market. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of counterfeit goods to the relevant authorities. The efforts to combat fake electronics are crucial for maintaining trust in brands and protecting the public from potential hazards associated with substandard products. The viral nature of the video has undoubtedly put pressure on SON to act swiftly and decisively. The implications of such widespread counterfeit production extend beyond financial loss for consumers, potentially impacting the reputation of legitimate brands and the overall electronics industry in Nigeria. The collaborative approach with security forces suggests a multi-pronged strategy to dismantle the networks involved in this illicit trade. Ensuring that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions is a key objective of these regulatory actions. The continuous monitoring of markets like Alaba International Market is essential for identifying and addressing such fraudulent activities proactively. The SON’s commitment to tracking and apprehending these producers is a vital step towards safeguarding consumer rights and fostering a fair marketplace. The public’s role in reporting suspicious activities cannot be overstated in supporting these enforcement efforts.
