The Lagos State Government has banned the use of petroleum tankers for transporting edible oil across the state.

The new directive, which took immediate effect, aims to protect public health and prevent contamination of edible oil with petroleum products. Officials say using the same tankers that carry petrol, diesel, or kerosene to transport cooking oil poses serious health risks to residents.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Safety Commission warned that residues from petroleum products can remain in tankers even after cleaning, leading to dangerous contamination. Consuming such oil can cause long-term health problems.

Traders and oil companies have been directed to use only dedicated food-grade tankers or properly cleaned containers approved for edible oil transportation. The government said it will carry out strict checks at major markets, depots, and entry points into the state.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, said the ban is part of efforts to improve food safety in Lagos. She urged importers, distributors, and market women to comply with the directive to avoid penalties.

Many residents welcomed the move, especially amid rising cases of food-related illnesses. However, some edible oil dealers expressed concern about possible increase in transportation costs, saying food-grade tankers are more expensive and sometimes harder to get.

The Lagos State Government has given a short grace period for operators to switch to compliant tankers. violators risk having their vehicles impounded and facing heavy fines.

This ban is the latest in a series of measures by the Lagos State Government to improve standards in food handling and transportation in Africa’s largest city.

Residents are advised to buy edible oil only from trusted sellers and check packaging for proper labelling.