House of Representatives has ordered an urgent investigation into the alleged widespread use of toxic chemicals to preserve and ripen perishable food items across Nigeria — a practice lawmakers warn could be causing serious public health crises.
The resolution came after a motion was moved on Wednesday by Rep. Chike Okafor (APC–Imo), who raised the alarm over reports that dangerous substances meant for embalming corpses and industrial use are being used to preserve fruits, fish, meat, and other consumables.
> “The use of harmful chemicals as preservatives in Nigeria poses a clear danger to the health and wellness of millions of our citizens,” Okafor said during plenary.
He cited findings from regulatory agencies, medical experts, and investigative reports showing that substances like formalin and certain industrial-grade pesticides — never intended for human consumption — are being used to unnaturally ripen fruits and prolong shelf life of perishable goods.
> “These chemicals pose serious health risks to consumers, including the potential for developmental disorders like autism in children, cancer, organ damage, and other life-threatening conditions,” he warned, referencing findings by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
Okafor also reminded the House of previous warnings, including NAFDAC’s 2019 alert on the use of formalin in meat and fish preservation, and a 2022 study by the University of Ibadan, which revealed unsafe levels of pesticide residues in frozen foods sold across Nigeria.
> “Despite these worrisome past reports, the practice persists. We are now facing what can only be described as the systematic poisoning of our populace,” he said, pointing to an increase in cases of liver and kidney failure, and a noticeable rise in children suffering from autism and other health complications.
> “The cause of these is not far-fetched,” he added. “We can no longer ignore the evidence.”
Following deliberations, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu referred the matter to several relevant House committees — led by the Committee on Food Security and Nutrition — to carry out a thorough investigation. The committees have been tasked to report back within two weeks with findings and recommendations for further legislative action.
Speaking to journalists after the session, Okafor, who also chairs the House Committee on Food Security and Nutrition, described the situation as a public health emergency.
> “This is not something to treat lightly. Our committees are already mobilized. We will identify those responsible and make sure the necessary sanctions follow,” he vowed.
The investigation is expected to cover the entire supply chain — from producers to middlemen to retailers — as lawmakers seek to uncover how these harmful substances are entering the food system and what regulatory lapses have allowed it to continue unchecked.
