Senator Kingibe calls for probe after doctor raises VOC alarm over Nigerian sanitary pads

Nigerian physician Aniekwe Donald has raised concern about what he alleges is the presence of volatile organic compounds in disposable sanitary pads in Nigeria. In a video that spread widely online, Aniekwe said his social media accounts had been repeatedly taken down after he asked what NAFDAC and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) had done about a 2024 recommendation. That recommendation followed chemical analysis by scientists from the Defence Academy and the Airforce Institute of Technology, which he said showed that sanitary pads in Nigeria contained volatile organic compounds in varying concentrations. He argued that women in Nigeria are entitled to know what chemical substances are present in the pads they use. He also asked why guidelines covering the composition of sanitary pads made in Nigeria are not easily accessible to Nigerians. According to Aniekwe, sanitary pads with unwholesome components can cause itching, rashes, dermatitis, or boils, as well as hormonal imbalance, reproductive problems, menstrual cycle changes, and in some cases cancer and uterine disease. He accused affected brands of trying to silence complaining women by sending them PR packages and pressuring them to record review videos on social media. Responding to his post, Kingibe said the concerns cannot be ignored. She called on NAFDAC, SON, and other relevant regulatory authorities to immediately investigate the findings, conduct comprehensive safety assessments, strengthen quality control measures, and provide clear and transparent information to the public. "Women deserve access to safe menstrual hygiene products and the assurance that the products they use every month will not put their health at risk," she said.