The Federal High Court in Nigeria has sentenced two men to a combined 40 years in prison for producing and selling counterfeit alcoholic beverages in Lagos State.

The convicts — Otuorimuno Nelson Aziakpono, 58, and Ikegwuonu Davidson Ikechukwu, 28 — were found guilty of offences relating to the manufacture, possession, sale and distribution of adulterated and unregistered drinks.

According to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the conviction followed an enforcement raid conducted on December 3, 2025, at Kojo Street in Ijanikin and Vespa Market in Lagos, where authorities uncovered illegal production activities.

During the operation, officials seized large quantities of fake alcoholic products bearing counterfeit labels of popular brands including Hennessy, Jameson Irish Whiskey, William Lawson’s and Gordon’s Gin. The agency said the drinks were improperly packaged, unregistered and unsafe for consumption.

The suspects were charged on eight counts covering possession of unwholesome products, manufacture and distribution of counterfeit beverages and related offences under applicable laws.

In its statement, NAFDAC said the judgment reinforces its commitment to protecting public health and removing unsafe products from the market.

The agency warned that adulterated alcoholic drinks pose serious health risks and urged members of the public to report suspicious products or illegal manufacturing activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Officials added that enforcement operations will continue nationwide to curb the circulation of counterfeit goods and safeguard consumers.