Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture has ordered the indefinite closure of an illegal Fish Farm belonging to Zhongmulfeng Ecological Development Nigeria Limited in Oba, Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area for suspected use of a substance to aid fast growth in fish production known as “growth homone”.

In addition to the above infraction, the farm was also sealed for non-compliance to registration procedures on  the part of the management of the farm.

The Director of Fishery, Princess Omolara Ojelade, who led the enforcement team to the farm, stated that the growth hormone is a substance that is likely to cause cancer in humans.

Ojelade noted that the government was committed to ensuring that food was safe for consumption and not harmful to human health, hence regulatory and monitoring activities to all registered farms across the State.

"Though the State government is farmer-friendly, it will not condone any untoward practices that may be detrimental to the health of the citizens. Individuals, companies or groups engaging in obnoxious methods of fish farming along the fishery value chain must desist from the act or face the wrath of the law", Ojelade said.

The Director disclosed that the Ministry had earlier proceeded on an inspection exercise to the said farm but were denied access into the premises, saying the action would serve as deterrent to other illegal Fish farms.

He advised fish farmers to register their business with government and observe proper guidelines.