Erisco Foods, an indigenous food manufacturer has quietly rebranded its tomato purée product to “EFL” after arresting a customer who criticized its quality, sparking debates about corporate accountability and consumer rights.
The controversy erupted when Chioma Okoli Egodi was arrested and put on trial for critiquing the product’s quality on social media.
Erisco’s rebranding of their tomato puree has however made Nigerians react strongly to this name change, with many expressing disbelief and cynicism towards the company’s actions.
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The company’s management of the situation received criticism from some, who emphasized the avoidable escalation that resulted in a public relations crisis.
Meanwhile, others ridiculed the company’s initial disregard for social media feedback, implying that the decision to alter names signifies an acknowledgment of their mistakes.
There are concerns that the newly branded product, “EFL,” bears a strong resemblance to its previous version and might not effectively tackle the root problems. Some are expecting additional repercussions for the company’s decisions, whereas some are disappointed by the lost chance for favorable public relations.
Overall, Nigerians continue to scrutinize Erisco Foods’ response to the controversy, with skepticism and criticism prevailing in online discussions.
Following the alleged rebranding of the company’s tomato paste, Nigerians on X have criticized the company, and here are their reactions below;
In his reaction to the rebranding of the product, David Hundeyin, in a statement on X, states, “As predicted two months ago, following its self-inflicted PR disaster, Erisco Foods Limited, a.k.a. “EFL,” has quietly changed the name of its tomato purée product.
“Imagine how much money and effort could have been saved by listening to actual professional advice.”
Another X user identified as True Tyger, mentioned that “it would have cost him next to nothing to humble himself, apologize to that lady and Nigerians, and move on. But in his arrogance, he chose the hard way. This is very disgraceful.”
Another X user simply identified as Koolman, said, “They want to do everything to get rid of what they have in the stock house. The Erisco chairman should just come out and apologize, compensate, make adjustments, and even use the lady as the ambassador of the product for peace.”
Reacting to the launch of the new product, Jomo Demola said, “So Erisco folded at the end of the day with all the noise. well-meaning Nigerians and Obi-dients are doing a good job.”
“He has gone to change his clothes after being stained by social media; it’s the same man; no worries, he will be stained again. Nigeria is happening to him too,” Chinney Nedum argues.
Sabina Nkiru argued that “Erisco Foods has finally killed his brand with his own hands.”
Olufemi Lee argued that “their sales must have been badly affected” by the boycott of the product so much “that they decided to rebrand, thinking people would not know. EFL is most definitely Erisco.”
Why Chioma Egodi Was Arrested Over ERISCO Product’s Review
Egodi had in a Facebook post on September 17, 2023, claimed she bought Nagiko Tomato Mix, a product of Erisco Foods, the previous day, and that it tasted too much sugar. She said she had intended to purchase her regular brands, Gino or Sonia, but they were not readily available.
Her post generated reactions and forced the management of the company to involve the police through a petition to Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of Police.
She was arrested initially but was later released on bail conditions.
However, not long after news of Egodi’s arrest surfaced on social media, netizens took to different social media to knock the management of Erisco Food, urging others to boycott the company.
Addressing social media claims, Erisco Food released a statement, tagging the claims “untrue.”
The statement also claimed that Egodi’s post was “obviously intended to mislead our esteemed customers and discredit the image of Erisco Foods Limited, as previously instigated by some elements and syndicates who are uncomfortable with our increasing market dominance as a leading indigenous manufacturer of tomato pastes.
Police’s Intervention
The Nigerian police reiterated their decision to prosecute Chioma Egodi, alleging her online commentary on Erisco Foods Limited’s tomato paste violates the Cybercrime Act of 2015.
Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson advised Egodi to cease bail jumping and submit to the judicial process for resolution.
According to the police, initial investigations have revealed significant evidence suggesting Chioma’s involvement in breaking existing laws, especially concerning the appropriate use of cyberspace.
Between Chioma Egodi And ERISCO
- On September 17, 2023, Egodi shared a Facebook post stating that she purchased Nagiko Tomato Mix from Erisco Foods the day before and found it overly sweet. She mentioned that she normally buys Gino or Sonia brands, but they were out of stock.
- After her post sparked significant reactions, the company’s management decided to contact the police, petitioning Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, which resulted in her arrest.
- This incident prompted the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to advocate for her release.
- However, Erisco Food Founder, Eric Umeofia, mentioned settlement terms but disputed FCCPC’s involvement in Chioma’s release. Umeofia clarified that Chioma’s uncle facilitated her release.
- The controversy also prompted scrutiny of the product’s registration, leading the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to confirm Eriscofoods’ Nagiko Tomato Mix’s registration in 2021.
- In response to Okoli’s critical content, Erisco Foods announced plans to sue her for N5 billion, citing harm to their reputation due to her failure to issue a public apology.
