The Nigerian police on Monday detained an Abuja-based shop owner, Love Dooshima, following a controversial online review of a bread product that sparked widespread debate.
She was later released in the early hours of Tuesday after spending several hours in custody. Her release came after legal and activist intervention, including efforts by lawyer Inibehe Effiong.
According to reports, Dooshima had honoured a police invitation at the Zone 7 Police Headquarters in Abuja over a complaint filed by a bread company, which alleged that her viral review negatively affected its business, even though she did not mention any brand in her post.
The controversy began after Dooshima claimed that a loaf of bread remained fresh on her shelf for two months, raising concerns and debates about food safety standards in Nigeria. She later alleged that the company demanded the removal of her video and threatened legal action.
However, the bread company denied any wrongdoing and insisted that its production processes meet regulatory standards.
Weighing in on the issue, food science expert Christine Ikpeme explained that such a claim is unlikely under normal conditions. She noted that bread typically lasts only a few days without preservatives and up to two or three weeks when approved preservatives are used.
She highlighted that preservatives like calcium propionate and sodium benzoate help prevent mould but only for a limited time. Any bread remaining fresh for two months could suggest the use of excessive or unapproved substances.
The expert added that food safety regulations are guided by global standards and enforced locally by agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
She also warned that misuse of preservatives or the use of banned substances could pose serious health risks, including long-term effects. Consumers were advised to check expiry dates, packaging details, and be alert to unusual texture or smell in bread products.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of the bread company, Maria Umeagwukadilo, defended the brand, stating that the viral claim had significantly impacted her business. She maintained that the company complies with standards set by regulatory bodies and prioritises freshness by producing based on demand.
Authorities have not confirmed any wrongdoing by the company as investigations continue.
