The Nigerian Senate has raised alarm over the prevalence of toxic and contaminated fruits in the Nigerian market, urging the National Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to launch an immediate investigation into unwholesome fruit ripening practices across the country.

The motion, sponsored by Senator Anthony Okorie Ani representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District, was adopted during a recent plenary session. Senator Ani explained that while fruit ripening is naturally "a highly regulated irreversible process that involves highly coordinated, complex biochemical and physiological changes," artificial ripening using dangerous chemicals has become commonplace among Nigerian fruit sellers.

"The artificial ripening of fruits involves the external application of chemicals and other agents to achieve faster and more uniform ripening of fruits," Senator Ani stated, highlighting that many vendors engaged in these practices are unaware of the severe health implications.

Health Concerns Driving Senate Action

Senator Dicket Plang of Plateau Central Senatorial District, contributing to the debate, expressed grave concern over the rising cases of kidney failure, cancer, and other life-threatening conditions linked to chemically-treated food products.

"I feel that there is a strong need to ask the Senate to place a restriction on the application of poisonous chemicals on foods," Senator Plang emphasized, noting that the problem extends beyond fruits to include fish and other food commodities.

Other senators joined in criticizing NAFDAC for what they described as a relaxation of its regulatory responsibilities, urging the agency to take immediate action to address the situation.

Senate President Shares Personal Observation

The Senate President shared a disturbing personal observation from the Abuja-Lafia road, stating: "I have seen where a banana was dumped in a gutter after application of chemicals and in the morning of the following day, it became ripped for sale. It is really a sad story."

Following amendments to the motion, the Senate has referred the matter to the Senate Committee on NAFDAC and Agriculture and Food Security for further investigation.

Call for Public Awareness

The Senate has called on NAFDAC, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and the Federal Consumer Competition and Protection Council to intensify public awareness through continuous sensitization and enlightenment campaigns about the dangers associated with artificially ripened fruits.

This development comes amid growing concerns about food safety standards in Nigeria and their impact on public health. Health experts have long warned about the potential long-term effects of consuming foods treated with harmful chemicals used to accelerate ripening or extend shelf life.