Ondo State Government Cracks Down on Cocoa Adulteration to Preserve Quality and Reputation
The Ondo State Government has taken decisive action against the menace of cocoa adulteration, a serious issue that threatens the quality and reputation of the state’s cocoa industry both locally and internationally. In a strong display of commitment to maintaining Ondo’s status as Nigeria’s leading producer of high-quality cocoa, authorities recently destroyed a significant quantity of adulterants seized from a cocoa merchant in Omiluri, located within the Ondo West Local Government Area.
A Major Step to Safeguard Cocoa Quality
On Thursday, May 22, 2025, the Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry organized the public burning of the seized adulterants—substances illegally used to tamper with and increase the weight of cocoa beans. This symbolic and forceful act highlights the state government’s resolve to protect the integrity of Ondo’s cocoa produce.
Segun Odusanya, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Forestry and Produce Division), led the operation and made clear the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward cocoa adulteration. The adulterants, which were stored in large bags weighing a total of 200 kilograms, were set ablaze as a warning to all cocoa merchants and stakeholders in the industry.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration is deeply committed to ensuring that Ondo remains the top cocoa-producing state in Nigeria. According to Odusanya:
“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is committed to ensuring that Ondo remains the top cocoa-producing state with unmatched quality. Anyone caught engaging in such illegal practices will be prosecuted. We will seal off any store found with these substances, destroy the products, and take legal action against the offenders.”
This statement reinforces the government’s firm stance against any attempt to compromise the high standards Ondo’s cocoa farmers have worked hard to achieve.
The Threat of Adulteration to Ondo’s Cocoa Reputation
Cocoa adulteration involves adding foreign substances to cocoa beans to increase their weight, thereby boosting profits dishonestly. This malpractice not only cheats buyers but also damages the reputation of Ondo State’s cocoa on the global stage. If unchecked, the presence of adulterated cocoa in the supply chain could result in loss of trust from international buyers and chocolate manufacturers who rely on consistent quality.
Odusanya issued a strong warning:
“We must protect our image in the global cocoa market. Bad publicity will hurt us all.”
This highlights the critical importance of maintaining the state’s image as a reliable source of premium cocoa. Any negative reports about adulterated products could severely affect the demand for Ondo cocoa in international markets, impacting farmers’ incomes and the state’s economy.
Strengthening Enforcement Through Recruitment
To further reinforce the fight against adulteration, Governor Aiyedatiwa has approved the recruitment of 60 new staff members dedicated to monitoring cocoa merchants and supply chains across Ondo State. These new recruits will play a pivotal role in ensuring that all cocoa leaving the state meets strict quality standards.
Odusanya praised this move:
“These personnel will help prevent adulteration and ensure only quality cocoa leaves the state.”
The increased manpower reflects a proactive approach by the government to address this issue at multiple levels—from detection and interception to prosecution and public awareness.
The Interception of Adulterants in Ondo East LGA
Before the burning event, Tunji Akinnadeju, the Director of Produce (DP3) in the Grading and Allied Department, revealed that the adulterants were intercepted in Ireje, Ondo East Local Government Area. During the enforcement operation, the cocoa merchant involved reportedly fled the scene, underscoring the illicit nature of these activities.
Akinnadeju explained the motivation behind adulteration:
“Cocoa is sold by weight, so some unscrupulous merchants add these substances to increase profit. This damages the state’s reputation in international markets.”
His statement sheds light on how greed and the desire for quick financial gains tempt some merchants to compromise product quality at the expense of the entire industry.
Public Health Risks Associated with Cocoa Adulteration
Beyond economic and reputational damage, cocoa adulteration poses significant health risks to consumers. Sunday Adegbola, Director of Produce Licensing, highlighted the dangers of chemicals mixed into cocoa beans:
“These chemicals may end up in chocolate and other products, posing serious dangers to human health. This malpractice stems from the high prices of cocoa on the international market, which benefit genuine farmers—not those using harmful additives.”
The presence of harmful adulterants can contaminate cocoa-based foods and beverages, potentially causing adverse health effects for consumers. This makes the fight against adulteration not just an economic imperative but also a public health priority.
Commitment to a Cocoa-Adulteration-Free Ondo State
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has pledged to intensify efforts until Ondo State is completely free from the menace of cocoa adulteration. The coordinated actions—ranging from interception, prosecution, public education, and government recruitment—are all aimed at preserving the long-term sustainability and integrity of the state’s cocoa industry.
Adegbola reaffirmed this determination:
“We will not relent until Ondo State is completely free of cocoa adulteration.”
This commitment offers hope to genuine cocoa farmers, traders, and consumers that Ondo will continue to provide authentic, high-quality cocoa.
Why Ondo’s Cocoa Industry Matters
Ondo State is renowned for being Nigeria’s leading producer of cocoa, a commodity that significantly contributes to the state’s economy and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. The high quality of Ondo cocoa beans is a competitive advantage in the global market, attracting buyers from chocolate manufacturers worldwide.
Maintaining this reputation is vital not only for farmers’ income but also for Nigeria’s standing in the global cocoa trade. Adulteration undermines these efforts, threatening both local farmers and international partnerships.
Conclusion
The Ondo State Government’s recent destruction of adulterants seized from cocoa merchants marks a significant step in the battle against cocoa adulteration. Through strict enforcement, public awareness, and strategic recruitment, Ondo is sending a clear message that cocoa quality and consumer safety will not be compromised. With continued vigilance and support from stakeholders, Ondo State aims to preserve its prestigious position as Nigeria’s foremost cocoa producer known for authentic and premium cocoa products.
