The Senior Special Assistant to Kwara Governor on Culture & Tourism, Hon. Eyiwumi Muka Ray has, on behalf of the state government, issued a stern warning to all hotel operators in Kwara state against the sale and distribution of fake and expired drinks.
This pronouncement was made during a closed-door meeting held with the leadership of the Association of Hoteliers in Kwara state, on Thursday, 25th January 2024.
In his address, Hon. Muka Ray maintained that the stern warning was in reaction to the rising concern about counterfeit drinks circulating in hotels, clubs and restaurants across the state.
“Widespread presence of fake drinks poses an imminent danger to public health and safety, thereby prompting intensified and coordinated efforts by the government to eliminate the substandard products from circulation”, he said
He therefore implores all hotel operators to exercise due diligence in ensuring they do not purchase or serve fake or expired drinks to unsuspecting consumers as he maintained that strict measures would be taken to safeguard the well-being of Kwara residents and visitors.
In his reaction, Alhaji Dauda Akande, the president of the Association of Hoteliers in Kwara state assured the government of their full compliance with the new directives, adding that the information would be passed across to all other members as safety of the lives of Kwara residents and visitors is of utmost importance.
He, therefore, urges the state government to provide them with incentives that would assist in mitigating the effect of the present economic situation of the country.
In addendum, Muka Ray harped on the need for the installation of CCTV cameras in each hotel premises to enhance the safety of customers and the security of their valuables. He further emphasized that there would be an effective collaboration with relevant agencies in a bid to ensure comprehensive efforts are channelled towards eliminating fake drink circulation in Kwara state.