The Ondo State Government has destroyed 200 kilograms of adulterants used for the illegal enhancement of cocoa beans. It is part of efforts to uphold the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading producer of high-quality cocoa.
The seizure and destruction took place in Ondo West Local Government Area.
The materials were intercepted from a merchant who fled during the operation.
The operation was supervised by Mr Segun Odusanya, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Forestry and Produce Sub-Section).
Speaking during the destruction exercise, Odusanya stressed that the action was part of ongoing efforts by the state government to maintain cocoa quality standards and safeguard its image in both local and international markets.
“Mr Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated the commitment to ensure the state remains the highest cocoa-producing state with good cocoa quality. Anyone caught engaging in illegal activities will be prosecuted accordingly,” he stated.
Odusanya warned cocoa merchants to steer clear of malpractice, as the government will not hesitate to seal stores involved in such activities, destroy the adulterated products, and bring perpetrators to justice.
“If we are saying we are the highest cocoa-producing state and we continue to encounter this scenario, it will give us bad publicity. This can damage our standing not only nationally but also in the global market, and we don’t want that,” he added.
He further commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for approving the recruitment of 60 new staff to bolster the fight against cocoa adulteration.
According to him, the new recruits will enhance the monitoring capacity of the ministry’s task force and ensure that only top-quality cocoa leaves the state.
“I must commend our task force committee for ensuring that the state holds its position in the country and the international market,” Odusanya said.
While speaking, Mr Tunji Akinnadeju, Director of Produce (DP3), Grading and Allied Department, explained that the merchant intended to add weight to cocoa beans to fetch higher prices, thereby compromising quality.
He said, “As we all know, cocoa is sold by weight, and adding foreign materials increases the price unjustly. This malpractice undermines the state’s integrity in the international market.”
Also, Mr Sunday Adegbola, Director of Produce Licensing in the ministry, warned about the health implications of consuming cocoa tainted with adulterants.
“With this action, many people might unknowingly consume adulterated chocolate powder and other cocoa-based products. These chemical additives can pose significant health risks,” Adegbola said.
He attributed the surge in adulteration to the high prices of cocoa in international markets but insisted that such illegal shortcuts must be discouraged to protect consumers and the state’s economic reputation.
