By Dansu Peter Amid swirling rumors and social media panic over alleged poisonous rice causing deaths in Badagry, fresh investigations by ...
By Dansu Peter
Health authorities have dismissed viral voice notes claiming that stolen trailer-loads of rice were “cursed” by an aggrieved owner, leading to mass deaths. The real issue, according to medical experts on the ground, is a possible outbreak of cholera — a waterborne bacterial infection known to spread quickly in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water.
Speaking exclusively to Badagry Today and some team of Journalists from other media, Dr. Dorcas Oladunjoye, Medical Officer of Health for Badagry West LCDA, clarified the situation.
“We are aware of a suspected cholera outbreak in Zongo community. There is absolutely no evidence of poisonous rice being the cause of the deaths,” she said via telephone. “Once the cases were reported, our department immediately notified the relevant health agencies in Lagos State.”
According to Dr. Oladunjoye, teams from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Primary Health Care Board, and Health District V have all visited the affected community. Food and water samples have been collected and sent for laboratory analysis. Results are still pending.
“The symptoms observed in victims — vomiting and severe diarrhea — are consistent with cholera,” she explained. “Also, the community's living conditions are alarmingly unsanitary, and their primary sources of water are contaminated.”
When asked about the number of fatalities, Dr. Oladunjoye said she couldn’t confirm an exact figure but acknowledged multiple deaths have occurred in recent days.
On-the-Ground Observations Point to Cholera
Reports have it that Zongo community lacks access to clean water, and refuse piles were widespread — creating a perfect breeding ground for communicable diseases. Medical officers at the scene also corroborated this.
Mr. Sao Temitope, a Medical Health Laboratory Officer with Badagry West LCDA, said he personally observed the same symptoms in the victims.
“There’s no doubt that we’re dealing with something waterborne — possibly cholera,” he said. “The community is severely dirty. Safe water is nonexistent. This is a clear public health crisis.”
He confirmed that the council chairman, Hon. Gbenu Henugbe, has already initiated a rapid response. Plans are underway to launch a full-scale public health sensitization campaign across the community. Health educators will teach residents how to purify their water, practice better sanitation, and avoid food contamination.
CDA Raises Alarm, Calls for Urgent Action
Earlier, the Oglogbo Community Development Association (CDA) had issued a public warning, citing a sudden spike in deaths within five days. The notice, signed by its chairman, Mr. Brose Timothy Semasa, urged residents — particularly food vendors — to act fast by boiling water, keeping their surroundings clean, and observing basic hygiene protocols.
“We suspect the outbreak may be linked to unsafe food, contaminated water, and poor hygiene,” the statement read. “We call on the government and emergency health teams to intervene immediately.”
What Is Cholera?
Cholera is a highly infectious bacterial disease that spreads through contaminated food or water. It causes profuse diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration. Without prompt treatment, it can be fatal — especially in environments with limited access to medical care.
Clearing the Air on Poisonous Rice Rumors
Viral voice notes circulating on WhatsApp and Facebook have falsely alleged that stolen bags of rice, supposedly “spiritually poisoned,” were being consumed in Badagry — sparking mass casualties. The story claims the rice’s original owner had placed a deadly curse on the product.
Health experts and journalists have found no evidence to support these claims.
“These rumors are dangerous and misleading,” said Mr. Sao Temitope. “What we’re seeing here is a public health emergency, not black magic or poisoned rice.”
Authorities Respond, Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
As investigations continue and lab results are awaited, residents of Zongo and surrounding areas are being advised to take urgent preventive steps:
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Boil or treat drinking water
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Avoid eating food exposed to unsanitary conditions
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Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene
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Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting appear
The Lagos State Government has yet to release an official statement, but emergency health interventions are already in motion.
Badagry Today will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available..
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