Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has raised concerns over the alleged use of harmful chemicals in the growing, ripening and preservation of fruits and vegetables in Nigeria.
Osinbajo recounted how a laboratory examination of freshly squeezed orange juice consumed by his wife, Dolapo, found the juice “not fit for human consumption.”
Wife Developed Persistent Headaches
Osinbajo said his wife had stopped drinking carbonated beverages and had instead adopted freshly squeezed orange juice as part of her daily routine.
According to him, she subsequently began experiencing unexplained headaches.
The former vice president said the family eventually had the juice tested in a laboratory, where the result reportedly showed that it was unsafe for consumption.
Osinbajo disclosed this while speaking at the Open Day for Gardeners’ Seminar in Lagos on August 28. A video of the event was subsequently shared online.
Concern Over Fruit Preservation
The former vice president used the experience to raise broader concerns about food safety.
He warned about the potential dangers associated with chemicals allegedly used to ripen or preserve fruits and other agricultural produce.
Osinbajo said consumers may unknowingly purchase fruits that have been treated with substances that could pose health risks.
His comments have renewed attention on the need for stronger monitoring of agricultural practices and food safety standards.
Call For Greater Food Safety Awareness
The issue of chemically treated fruits has been a recurring concern among health and agricultural stakeholders.
Consumers are often advised to properly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption, while regulators are responsible for ensuring that substances used in food production and preservation comply with safety standards.
Osinbajo’s account, however, was based on his family’s reported experience and should not be interpreted as evidence that all commercially available oranges or fruit juices are unsafe.
Why The Warning Matters
Nigeria’s growing population and expanding agricultural supply chain make food safety an important public health issue.
Ensuring that farmers, distributors and fruit sellers comply with approved standards remains critical to protecting consumers.
Osinbajo’s account has therefore brought renewed public attention to how fruits are grown, treated, transported and preserved before reaching consumers.