By John Umeh
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has categorically denied allegations linking it to the distribution of poisoned rice reportedly responsible for the deaths of several individuals in Lagos State. The Service addressed growing public concerns on Thursday, following reports circulating on social media suggesting that rice seized and later released by Customs may have been contaminated.
In a press briefing held at the Customs headquarters in Abuja, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, described the allegations as “false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among Nigerians.” He maintained that all food items released by the Service are subject to strict inspection and clearance procedures in conjunction with relevant health agencies.
“The Nigeria Customs Service does not and will never release unwholesome food items for public consumption,” Maiwada stated. “We work in partnership with agencies like NAFDAC and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria to ensure that any consumables distributed are safe and certified.”
The controversy erupted after a string of unexplained deaths was reported in certain parts of Lagos, with speculations pointing to the recent distribution of seized rice to vulnerable communities. Several social media posts claimed that the rice, allegedly confiscated years ago and stored in unfavorable conditions, had been redistributed without proper testing.
In response, Lagos State health authorities confirmed that investigations into the cause of the deaths were ongoing, but warned the public against jumping to conclusions. A representative of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that there was no scientific evidence yet to link the fatalities to any particular food item, including rice.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has been deployed to the affected areas to conduct toxicology tests and determine the actual cause of the incident. Preliminary reports from the field suggest the need for more comprehensive food safety measures, particularly in informal markets.
The Customs Service reiterated its commitment to transparency and public health, urging Nigerians to await official findings from the health authorities before spreading unverified information. “We are open to any investigation and will cooperate fully with relevant agencies to establish the facts,” Maiwada added.
This development has sparked broader debates on food security, storage standards, and inter-agency collaboration in Nigeria. Public health advocates have called for greater oversight and accountability in the handling and redistribution of confiscated consumables.
As investigations continue, residents are advised to exercise caution, report suspicious food items to authorities, and follow public health advisories to prevent further incidents.
