The Gboko Local Government Health Authority in Benue State has removed about 20,000 crates of expired Coca-Cola products from Gboko Main Market after a routine inspection uncovered large quantities of out-of-date drinks still being sold.
The operation was carried out by the Director of the Gboko Local Government Health Authority, Mrs Wede Victoria, working alongside environmental health officers and market security personnel.
Officials said the expired beverages, some of which reportedly passed their expiry date since 2024, were still openly displayed on traders’ shelves for unsuspecting buyers.
Mrs Victoria explained that the action was taken to safeguard public health and prevent residents from consuming unsafe products that could pose serious health risks.
She warned that drinking expired carbonated beverages could lead to stomach problems, food poisoning, and other health-related complications.
During the exercise, the health team evacuated the affected products from various stalls and moved them to a government facility where they will be properly destroyed in line with safety regulations.
Authorities also invited some of the traders connected to the seized goods for questioning as investigations continue into how the expired items made their way into the market.
Officials said they are working to identify suppliers and determine whether there were lapses in storage, distribution, or retail processes.
While some traders claimed they were unaware the products had expired, others expressed concern over the financial losses suffered from the seizure.
Many residents of Gboko commended the move, saying it would help protect consumers who often buy packaged drinks without checking expiry dates.
The health authority has since urged all traders to regularly check product expiry dates and maintain proper storage conditions to avoid similar incidents.
It also warned that anyone caught selling expired or unsafe products risks sanctions, including confiscation of goods and possible legal action.