The Ondo State Government on Thursday destroyed adulterants seized from cocoa merchants as part of efforts to maintain the state's position as Nigeria's leading quality cocoa producer.

Mr. Segun Odusanya, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, ordered the burning of 200kg bags of adulterants that were confiscated from a merchant in Omiluri, Ondo West Local Government Area.

During the exercise, Odusanya emphasized that the action reflects Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa's commitment to maintaining Ondo's status as the highest cocoa-producing state with superior quality.

"Anyone caught engaging in illegal activities will be prosecuted accordingly," Odusanya warned. "We are going to seal any store caught in such illegal activities, the products will be burnt, and the merchant will be prosecuted according to the laws of the land."

The permanent secretary expressed concern about the potential damage to Ondo's reputation, stating, "If we are saying we are the highest cocoa producing state and we continue to encounter this scenario, it will give us bad publicity in the country and extend to the international market, and we don't want that."

Mr. Tunji Akinnadeju, a Director of Produce in the Grading and Allied Department of the ministry, revealed that the adulterants were intercepted at Ireje in Ondo East Local Government Area, with the owner fleeing during the arrest.

"Cocoa is sold by weight, and after adding these adulterants, it will be sold at higher prices, which is not acceptable. This practice damages the image of both the state and country in international markets," Akinnadeju explained.

Mr. Sunday Adegbola, Director of Produce Licensing, highlighted the health risks associated with adulterated cocoa products. He attributed the illegal practice to favorable international market prices and pledged that the ministry would continue its efforts until the state is free from adulterated cocoa beans.

"The consumption of these chemical products will affect humans," Adegbola warned, noting that many people consume cocoa as chocolate powder and other derivatives that could be compromised by adulteration.

In support of these efforts, Governor Aiyedatiwa has approved the recruitment of 60 new staff members to monitor cocoa merchants' activities throughout the state, reinforcing Ondo's commitment to maintaining high-quality cocoa production.