The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has intensified its crackdown on food adulteration and unsafe handling practices, warning producers and vendors that anyone compromising public health will face strict legal action.
The warning was issued during a one-day sensitisation programme on food quality standards, safety regulations, and fair business practices, held on Wednesday in Enugu.
The event brought together regulators, industry stakeholders, civil society groups, and consumer advocates, all pledging collaboration to strengthen food safety systems and protect public health nationwide.
Delivering the keynote address, FCCPC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Olatunji Bello. represented by the Director of Quality Assurance and Development, Nkechi Mba, stressed that food safety is both a legal obligation and a human right.
“Food is not merely a commodity; it is a fundamental human right. Unsafe food not only endangers lives but erodes consumer trust, disrupts trade, and damages the reputation of businesses. Any operator who places profit over public safety will face the full weight of the law,” Bello warned.
Bello highlighted several harmful practices currently under investigation, including – The use of calcium carbide to force-ripen fruit, addition of toxic substances such as bromate and Sudan red colorant, Poor hygiene during production and distribution
He noted that such practices expose consumers to severe health risks and undermine the competitiveness of Nigerian agricultural products in both local and international markets.
To combat these threats, the FCCPC is working closely with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and state authorities.
The strategy includes surveillance, consumer education, sanctions, and prosecutions.
Yahaya Garba Kudan, FCCPC’s Director of Consumer and Business Education, said the campaign focuses on empowering consumers:
“Our goal is to equip Nigerians with practical tools to identify adulterated food, understand the dangers of forced ripening, and know the channels for seeking redress,” he explained.
Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture, Patrick Ubru, stressed that food contamination threatens productivity and national development:
Similarly, NAFDAC Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, who was also represented at the event specifically warned against using calcium carbide for fruit ripening which she says can lead to severe health complications.
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