Lagos shuts shop over alleged sale of adulterated palm oil

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has sealed a shop on Lagos Island after allegations that it sold adulterated palm oil, amid rising concerns about contaminated products in the state’s markets.

The agency warned residents to be cautious when buying palm oil from traders and vendors.

General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, said that consumer complaints and market surveillance had uncovered traders allegedly selling contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil to unsuspecting buyers in an effort to boost profits.

He added that the adulterated product could contain harmful substances that pose serious health risks.

Solebo warned that the alleged contaminants include candle wax, chemicals, dyes and other impurities that the body cannot properly digest.

He noted that consuming such products could lead to food poisoning, stomach complications, tissue damage, liver problems and other long‑term health conditions.

The LASCOPA chief advised consumers to inspect palm oil carefully before purchase, looking for unusual colour, offensive smell, excessive thickness, sediments or any suspicious appearance that may indicate contamination.

He also urged residents to buy only from trusted and reputable sellers, insisting on safe and quality products at all times.

Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to consumer safety, Solebo disclosed that the agency sealed a shop involved in the sale of adulterated palm oil located on Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street, near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque in Lagos Island Local Government Area.

“The Agency had sealed a shop selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island in Lagos Island Local Government Area, Lagos state,” he said.

He warned traders and distributors involved in the sale of adulterated palm oil to stop the practice or face sanctions under Lagos State consumer protection laws.

The agency also urged the public to report suspected adulterated food items, deceptive trade practices and other consumer rights violations through LASCOPA’s official communication channels for investigation and necessary action.

LASCOPA assured residents that it would continue market monitoring, public sensitisation and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure safe and quality products are sold across Lagos State.