The Nigerian National Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association (NOPPMAN) has intensified efforts to stop the proliferation of fake onion seeds throughout the nation, reiterating its dedication to protecting farmers’ rights and maintaining the integrity of the Onion value chain.

During a media briefing in Sokoto, NOPPMAN’s National President, Alhaji Aliyu Isa, announced the arrest of a Kano suspect called Jafaru. The suspect was allegedly found in possession of counterfeit onion seeds.

Alhaji Isa raised alarm over the ongoing threat posed by fake seeds in the sector, emphasising that the problem has led to massive financial losses for onion farmers across Nigeria.

“Last year, the onion industry experienced significant setbacks due to the circulation of fake and poor-quality seeds,” he explained. “This caused economic disruption and severely affected many small-scale farmers’ livelihoods.”

He added that intelligence reports indicate other individuals still possess these dangerous seeds and continue to distribute them to unsuspecting farmers. As a result, NOPPMAN has strengthened its partnership with security agencies to track down and bring those responsible to justice.

Alhaji Aliyu Isa disclosed that the suspect, Jafaru, acknowledged possessing the seeds but insisted they were of high quality. Despite his claims, the association seized the seeds for laboratory testing to confirm their authenticity.

“We are not taking any risks. Until experts verify and certify the seeds, they will remain in our custody,” Alhaji Isa stated.

He further explained that NOPPMAN is partnering with the Sokoto Agricultural Development Project and the National Horticultural Research Institute to analyse the confiscated seeds thoroughly.

“Depending on the outcome of the tests, the seeds will either be returned or submitted as evidence for legal prosecution,” he said.

When questioned about the financial impact of the counterfeit seeds, Alhaji Isa noted that evaluations are still underway, with a clearer estimate expected by July or August 2025.

He assured stakeholders that the association, in collaboration with both federal and state authorities, remains fully dedicated to eliminating the distribution of fake seeds and assisting farmers who have been impacted.

“We are determined to track down and bring offenders to justice. The government is also implementing support measures to help affected farmers recover and resume their farming activities,” he added.

This increased effort is an important step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s Onion-producing industry and protecting the livelihoods of innumerable farmers across the country.

Jafaru responded to the accusations by denying that he distributed bogus seeds and claimed to have just them in his possession. The mandate from NOPPMAN requiring the submission of uncertified seeds for testing was something else he said he was not aware of.

In the event that it is shown that he sold counterfeit goods, he stated that he is willing to suffer whatever repercussions.

Source: AgroNigeria

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