Lagos Government raises alarm over adulterated palm oil in markets, seals shop
The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has raised concerns over the circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across the state, warning residents to remain vigilant and purchase products only from trusted sources.
As part of its enforcement drive to protect consumers from unsafe and substandard goods, the agency also sealed a shop on Lagos Island allegedly involved in the sale of contaminated palm oil.
The development was disclosed in a statement posted on Thursday via the Lagos State Government’s official X handle.
The General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, said complaints from consumers and ongoing market surveillance operations revealed that some traders were selling contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil to unsuspecting buyers in a bid to maximise profits at the expense of public health and safety.
According to Solebo, adulterated palm oil may contain harmful substances such as candle wax, chemical additives, dyes, and other impurities that are unsafe for human consumption. He warned that consuming such products could result in serious health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, liver and tissue damage, as well as other long-term health risks.
He advised consumers to carefully examine palm oil before purchase by checking for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, sediments, or any suspicious appearance that could indicate contamination or adulteration.
Solebo also encouraged residents to patronise only reputable vendors and insist on safe, quality products at all times.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to consumer protection, the LASCOPA boss disclosed that the agency sealed a shop located at Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque on Lagos Island for allegedly selling adulterated palm oil.
He further warned traders and distributors involved in the sale of adulterated palm oil to immediately desist from the illegal practice or face sanctions in line with Lagos State consumer protection laws.
The agency also urged members of the public to promptly report suspected cases of adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, and other violations of consumer rights through its official communication channels for investigation and enforcement action.
LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous market surveillance, consumer sensitisation, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure Lagos residents have access to safe, wholesome, and quality products.