Again, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has warned Nigerians not to patronise or use unsafe and expired tyres.
According to SON’s Director-General, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukunonso Okeke, the shelf life of tyres is four years, and they must not be used after four years.
The DG gave the warning in Lagos when SON destroyed smuggled tyres, steel doors, electrical cables, and spark plugs, all of which failed to meet safety, regulatory, and quality standards.
The products, worth billions of Naira, posed serious health risks to Nigerian consumers, Okeke said.
“Even when they are newly manufactured, tyres expire after four years, whether they were used or not,” he said.
Okeke warned consumers to shun used, smuggled tyres called “Tokunbo,” in particular as they were usually worn and readily burst under pressure, leading to fatal accidents.
He enjoined Nigerians to always take the pain to ascertain the expiry dates on tyres before buying or using them.
Okeke also charged importers and distributors to ensure that only quality tyres that met standards were sold to consumers.
He challenged genuine importers to conduct in-house regulations to eliminate the importation of substandard tyres and other products into Nigeria.
He explained that this has become necessary since SON was more determined to
to protect Nigerians from the nefarious activities of producers and importers of substandard products.
SON would continue to promote safety through quality assurance and standardisation, he assured.
Okeke urged consumers to report any observed infractions to SON’s offices nationwide or through its toll-free number (please provide the toll number here as part of public enlightenment).
Dr. Okeke stressed that the latest destruction of substandard products in Lagos, like earlier ones conducted, aligned with SON’s core mandate.
He explained that the SON Act No. 14 of 2015 empowered the agency to regulate and enforce standards for goods in the Nigerian market.
“As an agency, we take our responsibility seriously.
“This destruction of substandard goods is a clear demonstration of our resolve to rid Nigeria of dangerous, substandard, and unregulated products that undermine the safety, health, and security of our citizens.
“This is not just about destroying such products; it is a powerful message to all those attempting to compromise the integrity of the market,” he said.
He stressed that SON would continue to take bold actions against the influx of substandard products into Nigeria.
Okeke warned manufacturers, importers, and vendors that consumer safety would always remain paramount.
“This is a firm reminder to all stakeholders —from producers to consumers — that SON will not allow substandard goods to thrive in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to ensure that only quality, certified products are available to the Nigerian consumer.
“SON is vigilant and resolute in its mission.
“We will continue to identify, seize, and destroy substandard products and hold those who endanger Nigerian lives through their unlawful practices accountable,” he said.
Commending the relentless efforts of SON’s Inspectorate Department, Okeke expressed appreciation of partner agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigeria Customs Service for their continued support in the fight against the manufacture and distribution of substandard priducts.
He reaffirmed SON’s dedication to enforcing standards, upholding the law, and prioritising the health and safety of Nigerians.
“Let us continue to work together to build a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria.”
