By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency has raised concern over the circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across Lagos State, warning residents to buy only from trusted sources.
The agency also sealed a shop on Lagos Island for allegedly selling contaminated palm oil as part of efforts to protect consumers from unsafe products.
In a statement posted Thursday via the Lagos State Government’s official X handle, LASCOPA General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, said market surveillance and complaints revealed that some traders were selling contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil to unsuspecting consumers.
He warned that adulterated palm oil may contain harmful substances, including candle wax, chemicals, dyes and impurities capable of causing food poisoning, stomach disorders, liver damage and other long-term health complications.
Solebo advised consumers to look out for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, sediments or any suspicious appearance before buying palm oil.
He added that the agency sealed a shop along Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island, for allegedly selling adulterated palm oil.
He warned traders involved in the sale of contaminated products to desist or face sanctions under the state’s consumer protection laws.
The agency urged residents to report suspected cases of adulterated food products and deceptive trade practices through its official communication channels.
LASCOPA said it would continue market surveillance and consumer sensitisation to ensure residents have access to safe and quality products.
