The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has raised concerns over the circulation of adulterated palm oil in several markets across Lagos, warning residents to remain vigilant and purchase food products only from trusted and verified sellers.
Newsonspot reports that the agency also sealed a shop on Lagos Island as part of ongoing enforcement efforts to protect consumers from unsafe and substandard products being sold in the state.
According to a statement shared via the official Lagos State Government X account on Thursday, the General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, revealed that recent complaints and market surveillance operations uncovered the sale of contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil by dishonest traders seeking profit at the expense of public health.
Solebo warned that adulterated palm oil may contain dangerous substances such as candle wax, harmful chemicals, artificial dyes, and other impurities that are unsafe for human consumption. He explained that such products could lead to serious health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, tissue damage, liver problems, and other long-term medical conditions.
He advised consumers to carefully inspect palm oil before purchasing by checking for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, visible sediments, or any suspicious appearance that could indicate contamination.
The agency further encouraged residents to buy only from reputable vendors and insist on quality and safe food products at all times.
Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to consumer safety, Solebo disclosed that LASCOPA sealed a shop allegedly selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque on Lagos Island.
He also warned traders and distributors involved in the production or sale of adulterated palm oil to immediately stop the illegal practice or face sanctions in line with consumer protection laws in Lagos State.
LASCOPA urged members of the public to report suspected cases of adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, and other consumer rights violations through the agency’s official communication channels for prompt investigation and enforcement action.
The agency reaffirmed its dedication to continuous market monitoring, consumer awareness campaigns, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure Lagos residents have access to safe, wholesome, and quality products.
