Lagos Residents Raise Alarm Over Fufu Processing, Preservation Methods

Some Lagos residents have raised concerns over the preparation and preservation of fufu, with some consumers saying they have reduced or stopped buying the fermented cassava staple because of concerns about hygiene, contamination and possible food poisoning.

The concerns were raised by consumers in different parts of Lagos following complaints about the way some processors handle, prepare and store the popular food.

Fufu, also known as akpu or Santana, is traditionally made from fermented cassava. The cassava is peeled, soaked in water for fermentation, processed into a paste, strained and subsequently cooked into the smooth dough commonly eaten with soups.

For many Nigerians, fufu remains an important staple, but its traditional processing requires careful attention to water quality, cleanliness, handling and storage to prevent contamination.

A resident of Ajegunle, Omena Udonwa, said her family had resorted to preparing fufu at home because of her concerns about the practices of some commercial processors.

She alleged that she once found a piece of rubber inside purchased fufu, saying she could have consumed it if she had not been careful.

Udonwa also expressed concern after allegedly witnessing a producer use detergent to wash cassava during processing.

Another resident of Costain, Adedayo Falade, said he had reduced his consumption of fufu despite enjoying the food because of what he described as poor preparation practices by some producers.

Falade said some fufu sold in Lagos could remain unsold for several days, affecting its quality and taste. He also complained about products that developed unpleasant odours or became excessively sticky.

He said he preferred sourcing fufu from outside Lagos because of his concerns about the way some products were processed locally.

However, the concerns expressed by individual consumers do not mean that all fufu produced or sold in Lagos is unsafe.

A resident of Agege, Anuoluwapo Ayeni, acknowledged that there were processors who followed acceptable practices but urged consumers to pay attention to where they purchased the food.

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She advised buyers to establish, where possible, how the fufu they consume is processed and handled.

A processor at Santana International in White Sand, Oyingbo, Hope Aniekan, described the traditional processing method used at her facility and rejected suggestions that all producers engage in unsafe practices.

According to her, cassava is peeled and thoroughly washed with clean water before being soaked for about two days. The fermented cassava is then taken to a mill, ground and filtered to remove unwanted particles.

She said the resulting paste is put in a sack, covered with plantain leaves and weighted with a heavy stone as part of the processing procedure.

Aniekan said her operation uses salt as a preservative against maggot infestation and does not add other harmful substances. She, however, acknowledged that she could only speak for her own processing operation.

She also said there were rumours of some processors using substances intended to accelerate fermentation, although such claims would need to be independently verified in individual cases.

Another trader at Costain, identified as Mama Chinonso, said she uses a warmer to preserve her fufu rather than adding chemical preservatives.

She said the method could keep the product fresh for several days depending on weather conditions, although the safety of any food stored for extended periods depends on factors including temperature, hygiene and handling.

The concerns come amid wider discussions about food safety in Lagos, where regulators and food scientists have warned about unsafe practices across informal food supply chains.

At the Lagos State Food Safety 2026 Conference and Exhibition held in Ikeja earlier in September, regulators, scientists and consumer advocates discussed concerns over food contamination and adulteration.

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency also described food safety as an important public-health and economic issue for the state.

The issue extends beyond fufu. Food-safety experts have repeatedly raised concerns about the handling, storage and processing of various foods sold through informal markets and street-vending networks.

Research into traditional ready-to-eat food vending in Nigeria has shown that storage practices vary among vendors, with some using refrigerators or freezers while others avoid keeping leftovers and instead produce quantities intended for same-day sales.

Scientific literature has also identified microbial contamination as a potential concern in traditionally prepared fufu and other swallow foods when hygiene and food-handling practices are inadequate.

A recent review of research on microorganisms and mycotoxin contamination in swallow meals noted that fufu and other ready-to-eat foods can become vulnerable to contamination through excessive handling, poor personal hygiene, contaminated water and inadequately cleaned utensils and processing equipment.

The research does not establish that commercially sold fufu in Lagos is generally unsafe. Rather, it highlights why food hygiene, clean water, appropriate processing and proper storage are important in reducing contamination risks.

The fermentation process itself is an established part of traditional fufu production. Proper cassava processing is also important because cassava contains naturally occurring cyanogenic compounds that must be adequately reduced through appropriate processing.

The concerns raised by Lagos consumers therefore highlight the need for consumers, processors and regulators to pay attention to safe cassava processing, hygienic handling and appropriate preservation practices.

For consumers, the reports also underscore the importance of buying ready-to-eat foods from processors and vendors who maintain clean processing environments and proper storage conditions.

At the same time, allegations involving the use of detergents, bleach or other unapproved substances should not be treated as established facts without evidence from regulatory inspections or laboratory testing.

The concerns ultimately point to a broader challenge in the informal food sector: ensuring that traditional foods remain affordable and accessible while meeting acceptable standards of food safety and hygiene.

Lagos Residents Raise Alarm Over Fufu Processing, Preservation Methods

Men’s Health: Common Warning Signs, Conditions Men Should Not Ignore

Nigerian men have been urged to pay closer attention to their health, with experts stressing the importance of early detection, regular check-ups and healthier lifestyle choices in preventing or managing a range of common health problems.

A health-focused report highlights several conditions and warning signs that men should not ignore, including testicular lumps, abdominal obesity, prostate problems, erectile dysfunction, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and changing moles.

The report notes that many men’s health problems can develop gradually, meaning that some symptoms may be overlooked until a condition becomes more serious. Regular medical checks can help identify potential problems earlier and allow appropriate treatment or lifestyle changes.

One warning sign men should take seriously is a lump or abnormality in the testicles. Testicular cancer is particularly associated with younger men, and any unexplained swelling, lump or other unusual change should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Although not every testicular lump is cancerous, medical evaluation is important because early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes.

Another concern is abdominal obesity, particularly excess fat around the waist. The report links excessive abdominal fat with an increased risk of conditions including high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce some of these risks.

Men are also advised to pay attention to changes in their urinary habits, particularly as they grow older.

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An enlarged prostate can put pressure on the tube through which urine leaves the bladder, making urination difficult. Symptoms may include frequent urination, waking several times at night to urinate and pain or burning during urination.

Such symptoms can occur with different prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, and should not automatically be dismissed as a normal part of ageing. Medical assessment can help determine the underlying cause.

The report also highlights erectile dysfunction, commonly referred to as impotence.

While occasional difficulty getting or maintaining an erection can occur, persistent erectile problems may warrant medical attention. Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be associated with underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Lifestyle changes may help some men, while others may require medical treatment depending on the underlying cause.

Another major health concern is stroke, with high blood pressure and unhealthy lifestyle habits among important risk factors.

Men are encouraged to have their blood pressure checked regularly and to address factors such as physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

The report also draws attention to oral health, noting research linking gum disease with cardiovascular conditions, including heart disease and stroke.

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can therefore form part of a broader approach to preventive healthcare.

Type 2 diabetes is another condition that may develop without being recognised immediately.

Possible symptoms include frequent urination, particularly at night, increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, blurred vision, genital itching or recurrent thrush, and cuts or wounds that take longer than usual to heal.

Lifestyle changes, including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and staying physically active, can help reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and may help manage the condition.

The report also stresses the importance of managing stress and maintaining healthy daily routines.

Persistent stress, particularly when combined with poor diet, inadequate physical activity and insufficient rest, can contribute to poorer overall health. Making time for rest, exercise and social activities can support general wellbeing.

Men are further advised to monitor moles and other changes in the skin.

A mole that changes in colour or shape, becomes persistently itchy or begins to bleed should be examined by a healthcare professional. While many changes are harmless, medical assessment can determine whether further investigation is required.

The broader message is that preventive healthcare should become part of men’s routine rather than something pursued only when serious symptoms develop.

Regular health checks can help identify conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic diseases before they lead to serious complications.

The health concerns highlighted are not restricted to older men. Some conditions, including testicular cancer, can affect younger adults, while obesity, hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular problems can affect men across different age groups.

Men experiencing persistent, unusual or worsening symptoms are advised to seek professional medical attention rather than relying on self-diagnosis.

Early attention to changes in the body, combined with healthier lifestyle choices and appropriate medical care, can help men manage health risks more effectively.

The key message is simple: pay attention to warning signs, undergo appropriate health checks and seek medical advice when something appears unusual.

The information is intended for general health awareness and should not be treated as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Men’s Health: Common Warning Signs, Conditions Men Should Not Ignore

Ondo Toxic Drink: NAFDAC Confirms 48 Dead, 182 Cases as Methanol Suspected

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed that 48 people have died and 182 cases have been recorded following the consumption of suspected locally prepared alcoholic and herbal concoctions in parts of Ondo State, with preliminary laboratory findings indicating high concentrations of toxic methanol in samples of the drinks.

The health crisis has affected communities in Odigbo and Irele Local Government Areas, with authorities reporting severe illness, visual impairment and other complications among people who consumed the suspected products.

NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed the latest figures in an update on the incident, saying five affected persons had reportedly become completely blind while two others suffered partial blindness.

The agency said the affected communities include Odigbo Town, Araromi-Obu, New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo and Oniparaga, while cases have also been recorded in parts of Irele Local Government Area.

The outbreak was first reported in early September after residents who consumed locally prepared alcoholic or herbal drinks began falling ill and, in some cases, dying suddenly.

The number of deaths has changed as surveillance and investigations expanded. Earlier reports from the Ondo State Government had placed the death toll at 49, while NAFDAC’s latest update put the confirmed figure at 48 deaths and 182 recorded cases.

NAFDAC said 90 affected people had been admitted to hospitals and subsequently discharged, while six remained hospitalised. Another 31 people received treatment as outpatients, with other cases involving varying degrees of illness and complications.

The reported symptoms include headaches, general weakness and body pain, visual disturbances, difficulty breathing and altered consciousness. Some patients reportedly deteriorated rapidly after consuming the suspected drinks.

The suspected role of methanol has become central to the investigation after NAFDAC’s laboratory analysis detected high concentrations of the toxic substance in samples collected from the affected communities.

Methanol is a toxic form of alcohol that can cause severe poisoning when consumed. Exposure can result in damage to the optic nerve, blindness, organ failure and death.

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NAFDAC said it collected 15 unlabeled samples of the suspected alcoholic and herbal products for toxicological, microbiological and chemical screening.

The agency also conducted acute oral toxicity tests on laboratory mice in accordance with its standard procedures and relevant international guidelines.

According to NAFDAC, all the samples tested caused critical illness in the animals, while approximately 50 per cent mortality was recorded in six of the 15 samples tested.

The agency said some of the animals recovered after 24 hours but warned that further exposure could be fatal.

Chemical screening also detected Cannabis indica in 11 of the samples, while gas chromatography confirmed the presence of high concentrations of methanol.

NAFDAC said the combination of the preliminary laboratory findings and the mortality recorded during toxicity testing indicated that the suspected products posed a serious public health risk.

However, the agency stressed that its findings remain preliminary and that further confirmatory tests are being conducted to determine the exact concentration of methanol and identify any other toxic substances that may have contributed to the illnesses and deaths.

The agency has therefore continued surveillance, laboratory testing, case management and other risk-control measures across the affected communities.

The Ondo State Government has also intensified its response, working with NAFDAC, the World Health Organisation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps and local government authorities.

The state government had earlier banned the production, sale and distribution of unverified alcoholic drinks and other suspected harmful substances following the initial deaths.

The ban was introduced after the number of deaths began rising in Odigbo and Araromi-Obu, with authorities subsequently extending their surveillance to other communities.

The crisis later spread to Irele Local Government Area, where new cases and deaths were reported in communities including Idogun and Gbogunron.

Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, said the government was working to identify the source of the suspected methanol exposure in the affected Irele communities.

The authorities have also warned residents against consuming unregulated locally produced alcoholic drinks and herbal concoctions, particularly products whose contents, production process and source cannot be verified.

Police authorities have arrested 15 people in connection with the suspected production, sale and distribution of the implicated drinks.

One of the suspects is alleged to have been involved in producing substances suspected to contain methanol and is assisting investigators, while other arrests were linked to alleged violations of the ban imposed by the authorities.

The investigation is expected to establish the source of the methanol, identify the producers and distributors involved, and determine whether the substance was deliberately added to the drinks or entered the products through another stage of production.

The suspected drink has been linked in local accounts to a high-alcohol herbal concoction popularly known as “Monkey Tail”, although authorities have not established that every product sold under that name was responsible for the poisoning.

Local traders have described different versions of the drink, underscoring the need for laboratory analysis to determine exactly which products and batches were implicated in the outbreak.

The incident has also highlighted concerns about the widespread consumption of unregulated alcoholic beverages in some Nigerian communities.

Locally produced alcoholic drinks are often cheaper and more accessible than regulated commercial products, particularly in rural communities. However, products manufactured outside formal regulatory systems may contain undeclared or dangerous substances.

The tragedy has therefore renewed concerns about food and drug safety, enforcement of regulations governing alcoholic beverages and the need for consumers to avoid products whose ingredients and production standards cannot be verified.

The reported cases of blindness have added another serious dimension to the health crisis.

Methanol poisoning can initially present with symptoms that may not immediately appear life-threatening before progressing to severe complications, including visual impairment, neurological damage, organ failure and death.

Health authorities have urged anyone who consumed the suspected drinks and subsequently developed symptoms such as blurred vision, weakness, vomiting, breathing difficulties, severe headache or altered consciousness to seek emergency medical attention.

The Ondo outbreak has also prompted broader public health warnings as authorities seek to prevent additional deaths.

NAFDAC said its investigations would continue until the precise chemical composition of the implicated products and the source of the contamination are established.

The agency has also warned that the current figures may change as surveillance continues and previously unreported cases are identified and verified.

For families who have lost relatives, the immediate concern remains accountability and preventing further exposure, while health officials are focused on treating survivors and tracing the suspected toxic products.

The 48 deaths and 182 recorded cases make the Ondo incident one of the most serious recent suspected methanol poisoning outbreaks reported in Nigeria.

Authorities are now working to establish the full chain of production and distribution of the suspected drinks, while the arrests and laboratory investigations continue.

Until the confirmatory laboratory tests are completed, NAFDAC has maintained that its methanol findings are preliminary. However, the agency’s detection of high concentrations of methanol in the suspected products, combined with the severe symptoms and deaths reported among consumers, has intensified the warning against consuming unregulated alcoholic and herbal concoctions.

The Ondo State Government and federal agencies have urged residents to cooperate with investigators, avoid suspected products and report any additional cases to health authorities as efforts continue to contain the outbreak.

Ondo Toxic Drink: NAFDAC Confirms 48 Dead, 182 Cases as Methanol Suspected