Tension has gripped parts of Lagos and Ogun states following viral rumors claiming that deadly “cursed rice” is circulating in markets.
The speculation stems from unverified reports that a foreign trader invoked the spirit of the Ogun deity after her two stolen rice trucks were smuggled into Nigeria.
In voice notes widely shared on WhatsApp, concerned citizens warned loved ones against consuming rice, alleging that:
– Two trucks of rice were stolen from a neighboring country and smuggled through Idiroko and Seme borders
– The owner, reportedly a woman, consulted traditional worshippers in Ghana to curse anyone who eats the rice
– Some Customs officers and a soldier had died in Badagry after exposure
– Over 70 people allegedly died after consuming the rice in recent days
The rumors have caused widespread panic, particularly as imported Benin Republic rice remains a staple food for many Nigerian families. Parents in Ipokia LGA, Ogun State, reportedly rushed to schools to instruct food vendors not to serve rice to children.
“I saw parents telling vendors not to sell rice to pupils. People are really scared,” Morayo, an Ipokia resident, told Punch on Wednesday.
However, the Nigeria Customs Service has strongly denied the claims. In a statement, Seme Area Command spokesperson Isah Sulaiman described the reports as “entirely false, misleading, and baseless.”
“The command wishes to categorically state that this narrative is entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality of the matter,” Sulaiman said.
He emphasized that the NCS follows strict protocols for seized goods disposal and confirmed: “No incident within the Command’s Area of Responsibility or among personnel corroborates the false claims of deaths resulting from rice consumption linked to the NCS.”
The Customs spokesperson condemned those spreading the rumors, stating: “Unfortunately, some unscrupulous elements wearing the garment of journalism…disinform members of the public with baseless, fictitious and malicious accusations to score cheap points.”
Despite official denials, the rumors have spread to Abeokuta, Ibadan, and beyond, leaving many Nigerians confused about rice safety. The NCS has urged the public to disregard the claims and avoid spreading unverified information.