Deadly Rice Rumour Sparks Panic in Lagos and Ogun—Customs Debunks Claims

Panic Over 'Deadly Rice' in Lagos, Ogun: Nigeria Customs Debunks Rumour

Tension is brewing in parts of Lagos and Ogun States as rumours spread that a shipment of stolen rice, allegedly cursed by a foreign trader invoking the Ogun deity, is circulating across local markets.

The Voice Note That Sparked It All

Social media platforms and WhatsApp groups have been flooded with voice notes warning Nigerians to avoid buying or eating rice. According to the viral messages:

• Two trucks of rice were stolen from a trader in a neighbouring country.

• The rice was allegedly smuggled into Nigeria through the Idiroko and Seme borders.

• The owner, said to be a woman, reportedly laid spiritual curses on the rice using traditional Ogun worshipers in Ghana.

• Alleged fatalities, including Customs officers and a soldier, were cited in the messages.

One of the viral claims even suggested over 70 deaths had occurred due to consumption of the rice, with Badagry and Ipokia highlighted as affected areas.

Schools Take Precautions

In Ipokia Local Government Area, parents were seen rushing to schools to warn food vendors not to serve rice to their children. The fear has now spread to Abeokuta, Ibadan, and other parts of the Southwest.

 Customs Reacts: “The Story is False”

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has strongly debunked the rumours, labeling them “entirely false and misleading.”

“The narrative does not reflect the reality of the matter,” said Isah Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer for the Seme Command.

The NCS clarified that:

• No such cursed rice exists in their custody.

• All seized items are disposed of through due process.

• There is no record of any deaths linked to rice consumption within their area of operation.

“It is unfortunate that some unscrupulous individuals are using the guise of journalism to spread fear and misinformation,” the statement added.

Public Caution vs. Misinformation

The widespread panic highlights just how quickly misinformation can take root, especially in the digital age. While it’s understandable that people would take precautions regarding their health, the NCS has urged citizens to verify information before spreading panic.

 Key Takeaway

Despite the disturbing voice notes circulating across platforms, there is no confirmed case of deaths or poisoning linked to rice in Lagos or Ogun State. The Nigerian Customs has labeled the entire story as a hoax, urging residents to remain calm and ignore the viral messages.

 What You Can Do:

• Verify all information before sharing.

• Follow updates only from official sources like the NCS or NAFDAC.

• Report suspicious content to relevant authorities or platforms.