Lagos traders demand probe into viral rice smuggling allegations

Traders at Daleko Rice Market in Mushin, Lagos, have urged federal and state authorities to investigate a viral video alleging the market serves as a hub for smuggled rice.

At a Wednesday press conference, the traders vehemently denied the claims, labeling them as false and damaging to their reputation.

Chief Ibilola Solaja, Iyalaje of Mushin and Vice President of Nigerian Rice Distribution, who was named in the video, rejected the accusations, calling them a smear campaign aimed at undermining local rice traders and efforts to promote Nigerian-grown rice.

“I urge the government and security agencies, including the DSS and police, to investigate this disturbing video and uncover the truth,” Solaja said, emphasizing the need to prosecute those responsible for the allegations.

Market leaders, including trader Stellar Mide, dismissed the video’s claims, asserting that Daleko deals exclusively in Nigerian rice.

“The video is entirely false. We sell only locally produced rice,” Mide stated.

Alhaji Muftau Adisa, the market’s Babaloja, reaffirmed the traders’ commitment to legal and transparent operations, urging a thorough investigation to clear their name and hold perpetrators accountable.

The traders expressed support for local rice production and called on the public to disregard the video, which they believe seeks to sabotage their efforts and tarnish the market’s image.