Society Gist
By Gite Igiehon
A wave of concern is spreading across the Southwest region of Nigeria following reports of allegedly contaminated rice in circulation, sparking fears of a potential food safety crisis. The alarm was first raised in parts of Ogun and Lagos States, where several residents reported suspicious rice grains with strange odours, discoloration, and unusual texture, prompting public health warnings and a swift investigation by authorities.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed it is currently investigating the source of the allegedly ‘poisoned rice,’ which is believed to have entered markets through unauthorized distribution channels. Samples of the suspected rice have been taken for laboratory analysis to determine the level and nature of contamination.
In the interim, the agency has called on residents, market vendors, and food retailers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing or selling rice, especially brands that do not have clear labeling, batch numbers, or NAFDAC registration details.
“We are working around the clock to identify the origin of the suspected contaminated rice and prevent further distribution,” said a spokesperson for NAFDAC. “The public is advised to avoid consuming any rice that appears unusually white, has a chemical smell, or feels plastic-like in texture.”
Markets on Alert, Residents Cautious
The reports have triggered widespread anxiety, especially in major markets like Sango, Mile 12, and Lafenwa, where rice is sold in bulk. Market leaders have begun cooperating with local authorities to screen their stock, while some vendors have voluntarily withdrawn certain brands from sale pending further information.
In Ifo, Ogun State, one trader who preferred to remain anonymous said, “We were told some bags of rice may be fake or dangerous. I’ve stopped selling two brands until we get clarification. Customers are now asking many questions before buying anything.”
Some residents also claimed to have experienced mild stomach discomfort after consuming the questionable rice, although no fatalities have been officially linked to the reports as of the time of writing. However, public health officials have advised individuals who feel ill after eating rice to seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to the nearest health authority.
Government and Stakeholders Respond
The Ogun State Ministry of Health has activated its food safety task force and is collaborating with federal agencies to trace the distribution chain of the contaminated product. Meanwhile, Lagos State health officials have begun inspecting warehouses and retail outlets for suspicious rice consignments.
In a statement issued by the Lagos State Government, residents were urged not to panic but to remain vigilant and report any irregularities.
“We understand the public’s concern, and we are taking this matter seriously. We encourage the public to only buy rice from trusted sources and check packaging for signs of tampering or falsification,” the statement read.
Consumer rights advocates have also joined the call for transparency and tighter control over food imports and distribution. The Nigerian Consumer Protection Council (CPC) warned that such incidents, if left unchecked, could have devastating health and economic consequences.
Food Safety in the Spotlight
This latest scare has reignited debate over food safety standards and the regulation of imported food products in Nigeria. Experts have criticized gaps in enforcement and the porous nature of the country’s borders, which often allow substandard or fake goods to flood the market.
Dr. Aminu Balogun, a food safety expert, emphasized the need for a more proactive and technologically equipped inspection system.
“Every food item entering our markets should be traceable and certified safe,” Dr. Balogun said. “This isn’t the first time we’ve had food scares. Until we modernize our inspection and enforcement systems, these threats will keep recurring.”
As authorities continue their investigation, the public is advised to maintain high standards of hygiene and discretion in food purchases. Health professionals recommend washing rice thoroughly, checking for odd textures or smells before cooking, and avoiding rice with labels that look suspicious or inconsistent.
While no confirmed cases of poisoning have yet been linked directly to the alleged ‘poisoned rice,’ officials warn that the situation remains serious and urge communities across the Southwest to stay informed and alert.
For now, the fear lingers—and so does the hope that swift action and awareness will prevent a full-scale public health emergency.
