The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) on Thursday blamed the influx of sub-standard goods in the country on importers; and said poverty has made Nigerians purchase sub-standard goods.

The head of the organisation in charge of Edo and Delta, Ojo Akogun, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Benin that the porous borders were also contributing to importation of sub-standard goods.

He explained that though the country was striving to meet quality standard, "some Nigerians are always in the habit of cutting corners".

Mr. Akogun explained further that the poverty rate in the country had created an avenue for sub-standard product and businesses. He added that the purchasing power of the citizens had made patronage of sub-standard goods a norm.

He, however, said that the organisation would not rest on its oars to ensure that manufacturers and producers complied with the stipulated standard.

Mr. Akogun said that the organisation had achieved about 70 per cent of its mandate of zero tolerance of substandard goods between 2010 and the first half of 2013.

He said its Benin office was able to close four firms between January and June.

NAN