Former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has raised concerns about the safety of fruits and vegetables in Nigeria after revealing that laboratory testing found freshly squeezed orange juice consumed by his wife, Dolapo, unfit for human consumption.

Osinbajo shared the experience while speaking at the Open Day of a Gardeners’ Seminar in Lagos, where he discussed concerns surrounding the use of chemicals in the production, ripening and preservation of agricultural produce.

According to the former vice-president, his wife had adopted the habit of drinking freshly squeezed orange juice every day after giving up carbonated beverages several years ago.

However, he said she eventually began experiencing unusual headaches, prompting the family to investigate what could be responsible for the symptoms.

Osinbajo explained that because fresh orange juice was considered a healthy option, they initially did not suspect it could be the source of the problem.

After examining other foods and drinks she consumed, his wife reportedly decided to have a sample of the orange juice tested in a laboratory.

The result, according to Osinbajo, was unexpected.

He said the laboratory report indicated that the freshly squeezed orange juice was not fit for human consumption.

The revelation prompted Osinbajo to draw attention to the potential dangers associated with the use of chemicals on agricultural produce.

He expressed concern that some farmers and fruit sellers may use potentially harmful substances during the cultivation, ripening or preservation of fruits and vegetables.

The former vice-president warned that such practices could expose consumers to health risks, particularly when contaminated produce is consumed without proper checks.

He therefore called for greater attention to food safety and responsible agricultural practices, stressing the need to protect consumers from potentially hazardous chemicals entering the food chain.

Osinbajo’s comments have renewed discussions about the safety of fresh fruits and vegetables available to consumers and the need for stronger monitoring of agricultural practices.

The former vice-president’s account also highlighted how food-related health concerns can sometimes go unnoticed, particularly when a product is generally regarded as healthy.

The incident involving his wife’s orange juice, he said, served as a reminder that consumers need greater assurance that the food products available in the market are safe for consumption.