In a statement on Instagram, the company’s marketing manager, Adebayo Adeyemo, clarified that Hypo Bleach is formulated exclusively for cleaning, stain removal, and disinfection, and is not for human consumption.
“Hypo Bleach, Nigeria’s number one bleach brand, is designed to whiten fabrics, deodorize, and kill 99.9% of germs. It is not something to consume for the sake of trends,” Adeyemo stated.
The warning comes after videos and AI-generated images portraying Hypo as a beverage circulated online, sparking a disturbing trend where some creators simulated suicide attempts using the product. Multipro described these portrayals as fabricated and extremely dangerous, urging influencers and content creators to exercise caution.
“To every influencer, blogger, and content creator: Your reach is real. So is your responsibility. A trend that ends in ill-health is not a trend worth starting,” the company said.
Hypo Bleach also directly addressed young Nigerians, urging them to prioritise safety and seek help if struggling emotionally. “You do not have to prove anything to anyone. Not online. Not offline. Not ever. If someone is pressuring you to try this, that is not a dare. That is harm,” the statement read.
The viral incident escalated when VeryDarkMan appeared in a video using a substance from a Hypo sachet, prompting imitation and wider circulation of risky skits. Parents, activists, and concerned citizens have condemned the trend, calling on authorities to take action to prevent further harm to young social media users.
Multipro’s statement serves as both a safety advisory and a call for responsible online content creation, highlighting the potential real-world dangers of viral challenges involving hazardous substances.