In the wake of a recent controversy involving Erisco Foods and a dissatisfied customer, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has voiced its concerns over the detrimental effects of unverified social media claims on local businesses. The association is therefore advocating for a regulatory framework that not only defends manufacturers against defamation but also preserves public interest.
Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director General of MAN, made the association’s position known in a statement titled, “Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Advocates for Balanced Regulatory Environment.” He called upon regulators and consumers to foster “an atmosphere that promotes objectivity and fairness,” which protects both consumer interests and the integrity of manufacturers.
“The need for intentional steps to protect manufacturers from the adverse effects of social media trial and defamation and ensuring fairness for all stakeholders is paramount,” Ajayi-Kadir stated. He highlighted the necessity of shielding local producers from the harm caused by unsubstantiated negative claims about their products.
Addressing the “Impact of Social Media Defamation,” Ajayi-Kadir argued that such defamation could significantly harm manufacturing businesses, potentially threatening their survival. He advocated for measures that acknowledge the challenges faced by Nigerian manufacturers while also encouraging consumer patronage and empathy.
Ajayi-Kadir recognized the right of consumers to voice legitimate complaints through proper channels but emphasized the importance of holding them accountable for disseminating false information about local products and maligning local manufacturers in the court of public opinion. He cited the case between Erisco Foods and its unhappy customer as an example that highlighted the need for equal protection of rights for both manufacturers and consumers.
“The case underscored the importance of diligent investigation as carried out by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, which exonerated the manufacturer of the said product,” he remarked, commending the agencies for their thorough investigation.
MAN pointed out the challenging business environment in Nigeria and stressed the vital role of consumer support in sustaining local manufacturing businesses. The association also emphasized the negative impact of unverified statements on businesses, even when product validation has confirmed their quality, and called on government agencies to take proactive steps to protect manufacturers while safeguarding consumer rights.
The call for a shift in consumer behaviour towards supporting domestic goods and promoting their quality on a global stage was also made. MAN underscored the significance of mutual accountability between manufacturers and consumers to spur economic growth in Nigeria.
The Explainer recalls that that in a recent issue involving Erisco Foods, a customer, Chioma Egodi, complained on Facebook on September 17, 2023, saying that Nagiko Tomato Mix, a product from Erisco Foods, tasted too sugary. This complaint led to a reaction from the company and legal actions against Egodi.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) also got involved by calling Erisco Foods for questioning about the reported arrest of the customer due to her negative review. The FCCPC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Babatunde Irukera, confirmed the customer’s arrest and said the summonses were meant to ensure that businesses don’t stop people from expressing their opinions freely.
