Tension is rising in parts of Lagos and Ogun states following widespread rumours about the circulation of allegedly deadly rice.
Voice notes warning against the consumption of rice have flooded messaging platforms, with claims that two truckloads of rice were stolen from a neighbouring country and smuggled into Nigeria through the Idiroko and Seme borders. The rice was reportedly owned by a foreign trader who, according to the rumours, invoked the Ogun deity through traditional worshippers in Ghana to curse anyone who consumes the stolen goods.
The viral voice messages alleged that dozens of people, including some Customs officers and a soldier, had died in Badagry and surrounding areas after consuming the rice. Some messages claim over 70 deaths have occurred in recent days, sparking widespread panic and calls to avoid rice altogether.
In Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, a resident, Morayo, told our correspondent that some parents stormed schools to warn food vendors not to serve rice to their children.
Despite attempts by some individuals to dismiss the rumours, the voice notes have continued to circulate, leaving many unsure whether to believe the claims or avoid rice altogether.
In response, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Lagos and Ogun states has categorically denied the rumours, stating there is no “deadly rice” in circulation.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the NCS Seme Area Command, Isah Sulaiman, the Service described the claims as “entirely false, misleading, and unfounded.”
“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has been drawn to a widely circulated, unfounded allegation claiming that seized rice was distributed without the owner’s knowledge, who then allegedly invoked traditional powers resulting in deaths. This narrative is completely false and does not reflect reality,” the statement read.
The Customs Service emphasized that all confiscated goods are handled according to standard procedures and due process, under existing laws and guidelines.
“There is no incident within our area of operation or among personnel that supports the claims of deaths linked to rice consumption,” the statement added, accusing some individuals of using false journalism to spread panic and discredit the agency.
Customs authorities have urged the public to ignore the rumours and avoid spreading misinformation that could cause unnecessary fear or undermine the efforts of security agencies.
Despite the official clarification, fears have spread beyond Lagos and Ogun to cities like Abeokuta and Ibadan, with many residents remaining cautious about buying or consuming rice.
