The Lagos State Taskforce successfully averted a potential epidemic in the Epe area, following the interception and confiscation of dozens of cartons of contaminated turkey. These turkeys, initially seized and set ablaze by the Nigerian Customs Service at a dedicated dumpsite, were found back in circulation, being sold by unscrupulous individuals.
Acting on tip-offs from Honourable Rasheed Shabi, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and the Oloja of Epe, Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun, the Lagos State Taskforce swiftly raided shanties near the dump site. During this operation, eight suspects were apprehended along with some of the contaminated turkey and harmful weapons.
Oba Kamorudeen praised the task force for its prompt and decisive action, emphasizing the potential risk if the contaminated turkey had reached the public. “I am glad this menace has been nipped in the bud before it blew out of proportion,” he remarked. “The State is presently tackling a cholera outbreak in parts of the metropolis, and we must not compound the issue. We must ensure that sinister forces do not plunge the State into a crisis for their selfish gains.”
Oba Kamorudeen also advised the Nigerian Customs Service to collaborate with other enforcement agencies, including the Police, Military, DSS, and LAWMA, during the destruction of seized goods. This, he suggested, would prevent official compromise and ensure the goods are thoroughly destroyed, preventing recovery by miscreants.
CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, who led the operation, explained that the confiscated goods failed to meet health and safety standards, leading to their destruction. “We cannot allow ignorant individuals to reintroduce products condemned by a federal agency back into the market. Contaminated foods like these could cause cancer, lung or liver disease, and other serious health issues. We are dedicated to protecting the health and safety of Lagosians.”
Akerele confirmed that the confiscated contaminated goods were brought to the headquarters of the agency and that the arrested suspects would be charged in court. He also commended Honourable Shabi and Oba Kamorudeen for their valuable tip-offs, which helped avert a potential disaster. Akerele further urged the public to utilize the “see something, say something” campaign, reaffirming that collective efforts would maintain Lagos as a safe, serene, and habitable city for all.
