Kano – Al-Imam Tea Herbs Pure and Healthy Nigeria Limited, a Kano-based tea company and maker of Z & Y Black Tea, has called on Governor Abba Yusuf and business mogul Alhaji Aminu Dantata to intervene in an ongoing trademark dispute with Promasidor Nigeria Limited.
Trademark Dispute Background
The dispute, which has lasted nearly six years, involves the company’s legitimate trademark registration against Promasidor’s claim.
Abubakar Dahir, the General Manager, explained, “Despite legitimately registering our trademark with the Trademark Registry, Promasidor has dragged us to court and resorted to unethical tactics to maintain market dominance.”
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Impact on Local Business
Dahir highlighted the severe impact on their operations, stating, “This foreign company has used police intimidation, arresting our workers on dubious charges and causing significant financial burdens. If this continues, we may have to lay off some employees, rendering them jobless.”
In the petition to Governor Yusuf, Dahir requested urgent intervention. “We write to you to seek your esteemed intervention in a matter that threatens the survival and growth of our young, locally-owned company established with the vision of contributing to the economic development of Kano State by providing quality products/services and creating employment opportunities for our people. As of today, Z & Y Black Tea company employed more than five hundred (500) workers. However, our progress is being severely hindered by the monopolistic practices of a foreign company that aims to maintain its dominance in the Kano market.”
“In 2018, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of the South African-based Promasidor Holdings, filed a lawsuit against us over a trademark issue. We had legitimately registered the trademark with the Trademark Registry, Commercial Law Department of the Ministry of Trade and Investment. At the time of our application, Promasidor Holdings had not registered the disputed trademark. Following a thorough search by the Trademark Registry for any similar trademarks within their network, we were issued a Certificate of Registration of Trademark.”
“This foreign company, besides taking us to court, has resorted to unethical and intimidating tactics to stifle our growth. They have been using the police to intimidate us by arresting our workers on dubious charges and transporting them to Abuja, far from their homes and families. This not only disrupts our operations but also imposes significant financial burdens on our company. The company has had to borrow money repeatedly to cover legal expenses and secure the release of our employees, which diverts crucial resources away from our business development activities.”
“Despite our efforts to comply with all legal and regulatory requirements, this harassment continues unabated. It is clear that the foreign company is using its influence to manipulate law enforcement and maintain its monopoly, at the expense of local businesses and the broader economic interests of Kano State. If this intimidation continues, our employers have no option but lay down some workers which in turn will render them jobless.”
“We therefore humbly request your intervention to address this issue and ensure a level playing field for all businesses in Kano. We believe that your support in this matter will not only help us overcome these challenges but also send a strong message that Kano State is committed to fostering a fair and competitive business environment.”
Government’s Commitment
Receiving the delegation at his office at Kano Government House, Governor Abba Yusuf, represented by Chief of Staff Shehu Wada Sagagi, assured that the government would investigate the matter.
“We will look into this issue to find a lasting solution and support small and medium enterprises to enhance economic activities in the state,” Sagagi stated.
Seeking Alhaji Dantata’s Support
The delegation also visited the residence of Alhaji Aminu Dantata, seeking his influential intervention in the matter.
Dahir emphasized the importance of protecting local businesses from unfair practices.
Legal and Financial Strain
Dahir detailed the financial strain, saying, “The company has had to borrow money repeatedly to cover legal expenses and secure the release of our employees, which diverts crucial resources away from our business development activities.”
He then appealed for policies that discourage monopolistic practices, “We urge you to investigate the actions of the foreign company and their undue influence on law enforcement agencies. We are confident that, with your intervention, we can overcome these challenges and continue to contribute positively to the economy of Kano State.”
