…warns that those caught in any form of illegitimate businesses will face full weight of the law
Anambra State government has reiterated its readiness to partner with Anti-Piracy Society of Nigeria (APSON) in fight against fake and adulterated products.
Commissioner for Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu who disclosed this in a meeting with executive members of APSON in Awka, warned those caught in any form of illegitimate businesses to desist forthwith or face full weight of the law.
He said Governor Charles Soludo has zero tolerance policy for piracy, counterfeiting and copyright infringement as he understood value of intellectual property protection.
He explained that government was actively promoting made-in-Anambra goods, and wanted every product with Anambra imprimatur to be certified of quality, excellence and integrity.
He said, “State will protect intellectual property, copyright, trade secrets/trade marks of products and services of industrialists, and their right to earn economic benefit from such properties.
“Anyone caught in illegitimate businesses, producing fake products will face the full weight of the law; and it is our business to flush them out of the system.
“We advise them to devote the energy they put into counterfeiting, fakery and forgery into genuine businesses, as anyone who can do all of these already has the makings of a proper business person.
“They just need to channel their energy in the right direction, and the State will support and promote them financially.”
Appreciating APSON for their commitments, the Commissioner urged her to ensure that members were properly trained on the best code of conduct and practices to ensure efficiency and high professionalism in their operations.
Director General, APSON, Comrade Frank Uduonu disclosed that the group had developed mobile application that would help individuals detect fake or original products using their mobile phones.
He said the group had recorded tremendous progress over the years, expressing optimism that its partnership with State government, security agencies and other concerned organisations would further strengthen the body to curb the menace of piracy, counterfeiting and fakery in the State.
