The House of Representatives has stepped down a bill seeking to outlaw the production, importation, distribution and sale of unbranded and unfortified edible oils in Nigeria, after lawmakers questioned the necessity of fresh legislation, insisting that existing regulatory agencies already have the legal authority to enforce food safety standards.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Chike Okafor, was debated at its second reading on the floor of the House, where members raised concerns that its provisions could duplicate the statutory responsibilities of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).
Presenting the bill, Okafor said the measure was intended to protect Nigerians from the health risks associated with consuming unbranded and unfortified edible oils while strengthening food fortification across the country.
He added that the bill would promote improved local edible oil production through partnerships with research institutions and introduce sanctions against individuals and businesses found to be in breach of its provisions.
However, several lawmakers argued that both NAFDAC and SON already possess sufficient legal powers to regulate the production, distribution and quality of edible oils, making another law unnecessary.
Some members also warned that the proposed legislation could have unintended consequences for thousands of small-scale palm oil producers who may struggle to meet branding requirements despite complying with existing safety standards.
Following the debate, the House resolved to step down the bill, paving the way for further legislative consultations and consideration before any decision is taken on its future.
