A member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon.Olalekan Monsur Abiola, representing Akinyele Constituency I, has called on the state government and local government councils to urgently construct modern cassava drying platforms across rural communities to support local cassava processors. The lawmaker made this appeal during plenary today while presenting a motion co-sponsored by Hon. O.T. Kehinde of Akinyele Constituency II, urging immediate intervention in the widespread roadside drying of cassava flour across the state.

Hon. Abiola noted that cassava processing, particularly the production of cassava flour popularly known as lafun or elubo remains a key source of income for thousands of rural women and small-scale processors. However, due to the absence of proper drying facilities, many resort to spreading their cassava flour on tarred roads and road shoulders, a practice he described as both unsafe and unhygienic.

He expressed concern that this habit exposes cassava flour to dust, engine oil, and animal waste, making it unfit for human consumption. The lawmaker also highlighted the potential health dangers, including the spread of Lassa fever, and the risks of road accidents caused when the flour reduces road visibility or makes surfaces slippery.

Hon. Abiola further stressed that the practice tarnishes the image of Oyo State and undermines ongoing efforts to promote food safety and public hygiene. He therefore urged the Executive Arm of Government, through the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and Health, in collaboration with Local Government Councils, to provide well constructed drying platforms and encourage the use of solar or raised drying technologies.

The House resolved that relevant ministries should also embark on massive public enlightenment campaigns to educate cassava processors on safe, hygienic, and modern processing methods. Lawmakers expressed optimism that with proper facilities and awareness, local processors would not only produce healthier cassava flour but also contribute more effectively to the state’s food economy.