LAGOS – A strange and unsettling rumor about “deadly rice” has swept through Lagos and Ogun states, causing considerable alarm among residents. The story alleges that a foreign trader, whose two rice trucks were stolen and then smuggled into Nigeria, placed a curse from the Ogun deity on anyone who buys or eats the stolen grains. This deadly rice rumor in Lagos, Ogun has quickly prompted widespread warnings and precautionary actions.
In a notable reaction, some concerned parents have reportedly instructed school food vendors to stop serving rice to their children altogether. This highlights the level of anxiety the unsubstantiated claims have generated.
From Skepticism to Fear: How Residents Are Reacting
Public response to the deadly rice rumor in Lagos, Ogun has been a mix of disbelief, genuine fear, and even dark humour. Some residents, like Taiwo Bello, have outright dismissed the story. He called it “a bloody and poorly organised lie,” questioning the logic of millions being affected by a curse on just two trucks of rice. Olawale Mutiu, speaking with National Scoop, even jokingly offered to take any allegedly cursed rice off people’s hands.
However, genuine concern is also evident. Morayo, a resident of Ipokia Local Government in Ogun State, confirmed that parents are actively warning school food vendors. Another individual, using the name Killermamba, shared an anecdote about a friend whose rice mysteriously turned brown, adding to the speculation. Cynics have also emerged, with some suggesting the rumour could be a tactic to boost local rice sales, while Michael Emeka views it as another sign of Nigeria’s persistent smuggling issues.
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Steps In to Debunk Rumors
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has now officially addressed the escalating deadly rice rumor in Lagos, Ogun. In a firm statement, the NCS has denied all allegations. The agency assures the publiic that there is no truth to any reports of “deadly rice” being in circulation.
Isah Sulaiman, the NCS Public Relations Officer, was unequivocal. He stated the claims are “entirely false, misleading, and do not reflect the reality of the matter.” The Customs Service attributes the spread of this false information to “unscrupulous elements wearing the garment of journalism.” This strong denial from a key government agency directly challenges the foundation of the deadly rice rumor in Lagos, Ogun.
Rumour Unproven, Caution Advised
Despite the official denial, the rumour about “deadly rice” remains unproven but has already caused significant disruption and unease across the two states. Authorities and community leaders are advising residents to seek information from credible, verified sources before taking any drastic actions based on hearsay. For the moment, the rumour mill continues to turn, leaving many Nigerians to wonder about the real story.
By Abdullah Korede
