Two men, Emeka Daniel (32) and Ugochukwu Eze (35), were on Friday arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly importing and distributing counterfeit condoms.
The defendants, whose residential addresses were not disclosed, are facing a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, forgery, and obstruction of justice. They pleaded not guilty to all charges.
According to the police prosecutor, SP Josephine Ikhayere, the alleged offences took place on June 23 within the Lagos Magisterial District.
Ikhayere told the court that the accused, along with others still at large, illegally imported counterfeit Kiss brand condoms — in both small and large sizes — into the country.
She alleged that they sold the fake products without regard for the health risks posed to consumers.
The prosecutor further accused the defendants of aiding in the concealment and escape of a co-conspirator involved in the illegal importation and sale of the fake condoms, thereby obstructing the course of justice.
The offences, she said, are in violation of Sections 97(1), 362, and 412 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.
Under these provisions, forgery attracts a sentence of up to three years’ imprisonment, while perverting justice carries a potential two-year jail term.
Magistrate Lafeef A. Owolabi granted the defendants bail in the sum of ₦500,000 each, with two sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned until August 21 for mention.