Woman arrested in Lagos for selling contaminated yam flour with toxic chemicals

In a major public health crackdown, a woman identified as Mrs. Kehinde Raji has been arrested in Lagos for allegedly producing and distributing contaminated yam flour—popularly known as Elubo Isu—using expired ingredients and toxic chemical additives.

Mrs. Raji was apprehended by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Taskforce following a tip-off from the leadership of the Elubo Sellers Association, who raised the alarm over suspicious activities within the market involving adulterated food items.

Confirming the arrest, the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed that intelligence gathered by the ministry revealed a disturbing trend in which certain traders were deliberately mixing substandard yam flour with harmful colouring agents to enhance its appearance and market appeal.

“Our enforcement team carried out a targeted operation based on credible intelligence, and this led to the arrest of Mrs. Kehinde Raji while she was allegedly engaged in the unlawful blending of yam flour with hazardous chemicals,” Wahab stated.

He commended the Elubo Sellers Association for their vigilance and cooperation, describing their timely alert as crucial in preventing a broader public health crisis.

Preliminary investigations have reportedly linked the adulterated flour to a series of health complaints from consumers, including reports of severe stomach discomfort, food poisoning, and allergic reactions.

Some affected residents are said to have sought emergency medical care after consuming the tainted product.

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Wahab emphasized that the Lagos State Government will pursue full legal action against the suspect. “We will not tolerate any activity that endangers the lives of our residents. The suspect will be prosecuted in accordance with relevant public health and consumer protection laws,” he declared.

He further urged residents to be extra cautious when buying food products, especially staple ingredients like yam flour that are widely consumed in homes and restaurants.

The commissioner advised consumers to patronize only verified sellers and to report any unusual appearance, smell, or taste in food items to the authorities.

“This incident underscores the need for stronger food safety enforcement and greater public awareness. The health of our people is non-negotiable, and we will not rest until our markets are rid of unwholesome and life-threatening products,” Wahab added.

Meanwhile, the contaminated batch of yam flour linked to Mrs. Raji’s operation has been confiscated and sent for laboratory analysis, while her shop has been sealed pending further investigation.

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and urged all stakeholders in the food trade to adhere strictly to hygienic standards and ethical practices.