Fear Spreads in Ogun, Lagos Over Rumoured ‘Deadly Rice’, Nigerian Customs Debunks Claims
Tension is rising across parts of Ogun and Lagos States following viral voice messages alleging that “deadly rice” is currently in circulation. The unverified reports have caused panic among residents, especially in border communities, sparking fears of mass poisoning.
The rumour, which has gone viral on WhatsApp and social media, claims that two truckloads of rice were stolen from a neighbouring country and smuggled into Nigeria via the Idiroko and Seme borders. The supposed owner of the rice, a woman, allegedly contacted Ogun worshipers in Ghana to curse anyone who buys or consumes the stolen rice.
Voice notes forwarded to residents claim that over 70 people have died in recent days after consuming the alleged rice, including Customs officers and a soldier in Badagry, Lagos. Some parents in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun were reportedly seen warning school food vendors not to sell rice to their children.
As the rumours circulate, some individuals are trying to verify or debunk the claims. However, the spread of additional voice notes claiming “confirmed deaths” has left many residents confused and anxious about eating rice—one of Nigeria’s most consumed staple foods, especially among children and youth.
Customs Speaks Out: No ‘Deadly Rice’ in Circulation
In response to the growing panic, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in both Lagos and Ogun states issued a firm denial, stating there is no truth to the rumours.
According to a statement from Isah Sulaiman, the Public Relations Officer of the NCS Seme Area Command, the story is “entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect reality.”
“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has been drawn to a widely circulated, unfounded, and baseless allegation… We categorically state that this narrative is false,” the statement said.
The command emphasized that all seized goods, including rice, are handled in accordance with NCS Standard Operating Procedures, which ensure transparency and due process.
“No incident within the command’s jurisdiction corroborates the false claims of deaths from rice consumption,” the statement added.
The agency also criticized those spreading the false narrative, accusing them of “disinforming the public” and tarnishing the image of security agencies.
Wider Impact and Warnings
The rumour, despite being officially debunked, has already spread beyond Ogun and Lagos into Abeokuta, Ibadan, and other parts of the South-West, prompting fear among rice consumers.
The Nigerian Customs Service has urged the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic or disrupt public order.
