The House of Representatives on Thursday urged the Federal Government to suspend the introduction of new genetically modified crops in the country until a detailed investigation is conducted.
It also urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to cause the already introduced GM foods and crops in Nigeria to be properly labeled to safeguard consumers.
The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion on the floor of the House o, moved by the lawmaker representing the Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, Kwara State, Muktar Shagaya.
Genetically Modified (GM) Crops are genetically engineered crops that undergo gene alteration and modification.
Presenting his motion, Shagaya said the recent introduction of genetically modified crops in Nigeria has raised serious questions mostly about safety, regulatory oversight, and the potential impact on the country’s biosafety and ecosystem.
He said genetically modified foods could be created to contain almost anything, including genes that have higher levels of toxicity and negative long-term effects on human health;
He said: “Also aware that introducing these crops has led to public outcries, with serious concerns expressed about the potential risks these GM crops may pose to human health, environmental degradation, and food security;
“Further aware that the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has been accused of approving the introduction of GM crops into Nigeria without following due process and scientific protocols;
“Concerned that these GM crops are being introduced into Nigeria at a time when the said crops have been banned in several countries like France, Russia, Germany, China, India, and a host of other countries in Europe due to safety concerns;
“Also concerned that GMO crops’ long-term impact on human health remains uncertain, prompting precautionary measures due to potential health risks including cancer, antibiotic resistance, allergic reactions, and reproductive issues.”
He stated that the crops could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s food security, potentially transferring control to foreign biotechnology companies which are primarily driven by profit and cost reduction;
He stressed the need to prioritize public health, biodiversity, and traditional farming practices due to uncertainties surrounding the long-term impact of GMOs on health, environment, and food security.
The House consequently mandated its committee on Agricultural Production and Services to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the introduction of genetically modified crops in Nigeria by the National’ Biosafety Management Agency.
