Otiti Calls for Ban on Fear-Based Online Herbal Medicine Advertisements
By Fact Harbour News
A public affairs commentator, Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, has called on the Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies to prohibit fear-based online advertisements used to promote herbal medicines, describing the practice as unethical, misleading, and potentially harmful to public health.
Speaking on the growing trend of digital marketing for herbal products, Otiti expressed concern over advertisements that rely on fear, anxiety, or exaggerated health claims to persuade consumers to purchase unverified remedies. He said such marketing tactics often exploit vulnerable individuals seeking solutions to serious medical conditions.
According to him, many online advertisements create unnecessary panic by suggesting that common symptoms are signs of life-threatening illnesses while presenting herbal products as guaranteed cures without providing credible scientific evidence.
Otiti argued that the increasing use of social media platforms and digital advertising has made it easier for individuals and businesses to circulate unverified medical claims to large audiences, sometimes without adequate regulatory oversight.
He urged agencies responsible for regulating medicines, food products, advertising, and consumer protection to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and enforce existing laws against false, deceptive, or unsubstantiated health advertisements.
The public affairs commentator noted that while traditional and herbal medicine remains an important part of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, promotional materials should be truthful, evidence-based, and compliant with applicable regulations. He maintained that consumers deserve accurate information that enables them to make informed health decisions rather than being influenced through fear or emotional manipulation.
Otiti further called on technology companies, social media platforms, and digital advertising networks to introduce stronger measures for identifying and removing advertisements that promote misleading medical claims or exploit public health concerns for commercial gain.
He also advocated sustained public awareness campaigns to educate Nigerians on the dangers of self-medication and the importance of seeking professional medical advice before using herbal or alternative health products, particularly for serious or chronic illnesses.
Health experts have consistently warned that unverified health claims can delay proper diagnosis and treatment, potentially exposing patients to avoidable health risks. They have encouraged consumers to rely on qualified healthcare professionals and approved medicines when seeking treatment.
Otiti stressed that protecting public health requires collaboration between government agencies, healthcare professionals, consumer protection bodies, media organisations, and digital platforms to ensure that online advertising remains responsible, transparent, and consistent with public health standards.
He expressed optimism that stronger regulation of digital health advertising would improve consumer protection, reduce misinformation, and promote ethical marketing practices within Nigeria’s growing online marketplace.
Fact Harbour News reports that discussions around the regulation of online health advertisements have gained increasing attention as digital platforms continue to expand their influence on consumer behaviour and access to health information.
