The Imo State House of Assembly is conducting a public hearing on a bill concerning consumer rights
The Imo State House of Assembly recently convened a public hearing to discuss the proposed Consumers’ Rights Protection Bill, aimed at bolstering consumer rights within the state.
The event attracted a diverse range of stakeholders, including consumer rights advocates, business owners, and government officials, and was held at the state House of Assembly complex.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Johnleoba Iheoma, the chairman of the House Committee on Commerce and Industry, highlighted the bill's importance for the welfare of Imo residents, stressing its comprehensive coverage of both consumer and manufacturer rights.
Throughout the hearing, participants shared their views on the bill, emphasizing the urgent need for strong consumer protection measures in light of the widespread circulation of counterfeit goods in the state. Concerns were raised regarding product authenticity, defects, and consumer exploitation.
Mr. Dominic Ezerioha, the chief sponsor of the bill and the representative of Oru West state constituency, reiterated the committee's commitment to upholding consumer rights, describing the bill as a cornerstone for consumer protection and redress mechanisms in the state.
Addressing the assembly, Chief Don-Linus Onwukaike, representing the Director-General of Imo State Consumer Protection Council, emphasized the bill's significance in combating substandard and expired products in the market. He also praised the initiatives of Governor Uzodimma's administration since its inception in 2020, particularly the introduction of indigenous standard measurement cups to safeguard consumers against fraudulent practices and ensure fair transactions.
Chief Athan Nwachukwu, a stakeholder from the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria, stressed the crucial role of effective regulation and enforcement in promoting fair competition and market integrity.
He remarked, "The public hearing represents a significant step towards the eventual enactment of the Consumer Protection Rights Bill, which will be deliberated by the House of Assembly in the coming weeks."
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