By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The newly elected Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup Ajimoko III, has warned against the sale of counterfeit products in his domain.
He expressed deep concern over the rising influx of counterfeit goods in local markets.
He declared that the sale of substandard products is unacceptable in his domain.
Oba Haastrup made his position clear during a visit from members of the Igbo community in Ijesaland Osun State, led by Eze Wilfred Ozor.
The traders had visited the Ogboni’s court, where the monarch is currently observing a 90-day seclusion.
The paramount ruler recounted his disappointment after discovering that all the electrical goods his contractor purchased from Igbo traders in Ilesa were of poor quality. To illustrate his point, he conducted the visiting delegation through various rooms where the faulty appliances were installed, demonstrating their defects.
Oba Haastrup then issued a one-year ultimatum to traders to eliminate counterfeit goods from the market, warning that decisive actions would follow if the issue persisted. To safeguard consumer interests, he also announced plans to establish a committee dedicated to quality assurance.
“I am chosen by my people because I have a duty to protect them from counterfeiting. If you cooperate with me, I will support your business. All I ask is that you import high-quality materials. The extension box, sockets, blender, and other items that my staff bought in Ilesa have already packed up,” he stated.
In his remarks, the Eze Indigbo of Ijesaland and Osun State, HRH Wilfred Ozor, congratulated the Owa Obokun on his ascension and assured him of the Igbo community’s loyalty.
He also pledged that necessary measures would be taken to address the concerns raised, emphasizing that product quality would be improved in the interest of all residents of Ijesaland.
