Ex-VP Osinbajo raises alarm over calcium carbide use in fruit ripening

Former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has raised concerns over dangerous chemicals used in ripening farm produce, according to The Sun Nigeria. Speaking at a Gardeners’ Seminar in Lagos on August 28, Osinbajo revealed that his wife, Dolapo, developed persistent headaches after daily consumption of freshly-squeezed orange juice. A lab test on the juice showed it was unfit for human consumption.

He attributed this to calcium carbide, commonly used by sellers to ripen fruits like bananas, mangoes and tomatoes. Citing studies from Ado-Ekiti, Uyo and Lagos, Osinbajo noted a significant percentage of fruit sellers admitted using such chemicals, and called for stronger enforcement and consumer awareness.