A coalition of over 100 civil society organizations, including farmers, scientists, legal experts, and academics, representing more than 100 million Nigerian consumers, is urging the Nigerian government to stop the introduction of genetically modified (GM) potatoes. The group is also calling for a total ban on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) across the country, citing concerns over fundamental human rights violations and the degradation of Nigeria’s food system.

This demand comes in response to the government’s recent announcement regarding an upcoming report on clinical trials for GM potatoes. In a statement, Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), warned that any further release of GMOs would not only harm Nigeria’s food system but also threaten consumer health and the environment.

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The House of Representatives had previously halted the introduction of new GMOs in May 2024, pending an investigation into the approval process. However, despite this pause, Bassey noted that four months later, the investigation’s findings remain undisclosed, while the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) continues to move forward with plans to release GM potatoes.

Dr. Ifeanyi Casmir, a molecular biologist, raised concerns about the long-term impact of GM potatoes, drawing parallels to the negative effects experienced with other GM crops like Bt Cotton, Bt Beans, and TELA Maize. He emphasized that these GM varieties have the potential to disrupt Nigeria’s original crop germplasm. Casmir also urged the government to focus on addressing insecurity in key potato-producing states such as Plateau, where rising instability has resulted in decreased production and soaring potato prices.

Public Health Scientist Joyce Brown highlighted the lack of long-term feeding studies for GM potatoes, cautioning against relying solely on field trial data. She stressed the importance of understanding the broader health implications before rolling out such crops.

Farmer Lovelyn Ejim, another prominent voice in the coalition, argued that Nigeria doesn’t need genetic modification to combat potato diseases. Instead, she advocates for organic farming methods, which she believes can sustainably protect crops.

The coalition also expressed frustration over the lack of engagement with farmers and consumers, as well as the absence of comprehensive information on the long-term effects and proprietary issues associated with GM seeds.