Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa of the Federal High Court in Lagos has convicted and sentenced two men to 40 years imprisonment each for producing and selling fake exotic wines and spirits in a case described as a major crackdown on fake alcoholic beverages.
The convicts, Otuorimuno Aziakpono, identified as a fake brewer, and trader Ikegwuonu Ikechukwu, were arraigned by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy and manufacturing unwholesome drinks.
They pleaded guilty to the charges.
Prosecutor Banabars Simon told the court that the suspects were arrested following intelligence reports that exposed a large-scale operation involving the production of counterfeit versions of popular foreign brands, including Hennessy V.S.O.P and Very Special, Jameson Irish Whiskey, William Lawson’s Blended Scotch Whisky, and Gordon’s Dry Gin, among others.
The court heard that the convicts, who resided at 4 Kojo Street, Ijanikin, Lagos, and 1 Lane 3, Cele Bus Stop, Lagos, were apprehended on December 3, 2025, with large quantities of fake alcoholic products. Recovered items included empty branded bottles, counterfeit labels, corks, and already packaged drinks ready for distribution.
According to the prosecution, their activities contravened provisions of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act as well as the Food and Drugs Act.
Defence counsel Ugochukwu Jonathan pleaded for leniency, describing the defendants as first-time offenders who had shown remorse and were deserving of non-custodial sentences.
However, Justice Lewis-Allagoa, while acknowledging the grave public health dangers posed by counterfeit alcohol, sentenced each defendant to five years imprisonment on each of the eight counts, with an option of a N10 million fine per count. The sentences are to run concurrently.
Though the cumulative sentence amounts to 40 years, the concurrent ruling means the convicts will serve five years imprisonment each if they fail to pay the fines.
The judgment underscores the judiciary’s firm stance against the production and distribution of fake consumables that endanger public health and undermine legitimate businesses.
