Expired Rice Scandal: Lawyer Demands Resignation of Agriculture Minister, Customs Boss
Bauchi, Nigeria – A prominent Bauchi-based legal practitioner, Barrister Mohammed Alkassim, has called for the immediate resignation of Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi, over the distribution of expired rice to Nigerians.
Alkassim made the call through a statement issued to journalists, expressing concern over the health hazards of consuming expired Indian long grain rice (G.K.S Rice), which was distributed under the Federal Government’s subsidized food program.
Key Allegations & Concerns:
- The rice, produced in February 2022, expired in February 2025.
- It was sold at N40,000 per 50kg bag through organized groups, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
- The rice was distributed despite being expired at the time of delivery.
- Alkassim, a beneficiary of the program, shared proof of payment and government-issued receipts, confirming the rice's expired status.
Demands by Barrister Alkassim:
- Resignation of:
- Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari.
- Comptroller General of NCS, Bashir Adeniyi.
- Immediate withdrawal of all expired rice nationwide.
- Accountability from the Federal Government for potential deaths or illnesses resulting from consumption.
- Investigation by NAFDAC into the health risks posed by the rice.
- Involvement of security agencies (NSA, DSS, Police, NSCDC) to prevent further circulation and possible re-bagging for resale.
Quote:
“Eating expired food may lead to serious health consequences, including death. The government must take responsibility for any harm caused,” Alkassim warned.
He also urged Nigerians to demand accountability and remain vigilant against food-related negligence by authority
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