Toba Owojaiye reporting
MINNA, Nigeria
Abubakar Katcha, former Niger State Commissioner for Science and Technology, has raised serious concerns after reportedly discovering a radioactive device concealed within his wife’s bra, purchased from Kure Market in Minna.
According to Katcha, the undergarment, labeled “Made in China,” was acquired in October 2023 during preparations for their newborn son’s naming ceremony. Shortly after she began wearing it, his wife experienced breast swelling and brownish discharge near the nipple. Their infant also refused to breastfeed, prompting medical consultations and antibiotic treatments.
Truth Live News gathered that, On May 18, 2025, while washing the bra, Katcha’s wife discovered unusual components embedded within it. Upon inspection, Katcha identified a small battery and another substance that, when combined, emitted significant radiation. He believes this radiation may have contributed to his wife’s health issues.
“It is the two sides of the bra that had this battery and some other objects after I opened them further to dissect them,” Katcha stated. “That is the reason why I am here for the government and the public to know that there are funny things happening in this country.”
Katcha has called on the Nigerian government to investigate imported consumer goods, especially those from China, to prevent potential health hazards. He expressed concerns that such products might be intentionally designed to harm consumers, thereby increasing reliance on foreign medical treatments.
This incident highlights broader concerns about the importation and regulation of potentially hazardous materials in Nigeria. In August 2024, the federal government launched the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations to manage battery pollution and waste, aiming to prevent health risks associated with improper battery disposal .
Furthermore, the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) has emphasized the need for stringent control over radioactive materials, particularly in industries like oil and gas, to prevent unregulated use and potential health hazards .
As of now, there has been no official response from regulatory agencies regarding Katcha’s claims. However, the incident underscores the importance of rigorous inspection and regulation of imported consumer products to safeguard public health.
Consumers are advised to exercise caution when purchasing imported goods and report any suspicious products to the appropriate authorities.