In Lagos, West Africa’s most populous city, waste is often seen not as trash but as an opportunity for those skilled in spotting its potential. Despite considerable risks to public health, many scavengers turn discarded items into profitable goods, prioritizing financial gain above all.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Lagos generates about 5.46 million tonnes of waste every year, and some of these discarded materials—like used wigs—find their way back into the market, as investigations by PUNCH Healthwise reveal.

Our correspondent visited three dumpsites in Lagos, including Olusosun in Ojota, the Ikorodu Dump, and Solous in Igando, observing how scavengers sort and repackage used wigs for resale. While the market for second-hand wigs is limited in Lagos, the practice thrives in the northern parts of Nigeria, where demand for them is higher.

However, health experts warn that the unseen risks associated with wearing these wigs far outweigh any financial benefits, with serious concerns regarding hygiene and safety.

Underground Markets in Lagos’ Dumpsites
At Ikorodu’s Ewu-Elepe dumpsite, also known as Dumping, the air is thick with decay, and the ground is littered with scraps. Despite the conditions, scavengers here have created a market for various discarded items, including metal scraps, old clothing, and broken appliances. A surprising sight at the dump is the collection of used wigs, which a young scavenger sorts for resale.

The dealer explained that while wigs are underpriced in Lagos, they sell well in the northern parts of the country. “We pack them for transportation to the north, where they are in high demand and can be sold at a good price,” he said.

A Scavenged Beauty Market
Many buyers, unaware of the wigs’ origin, are drawn to the hairpieces sold in roadside markets, admiring their texture. These wigs are cleaned, oiled, and restyled before being reintroduced to the market. However, the real danger lies beneath the surface—wigs may harbor harmful bacteria, fungi, and parasites, which can cause serious health issues for new owners.

A food vendor at the Ikorodu dumpsite, who identifies herself as Iya Tinubu, explained that scavenged items, including wigs, are in demand. “Many people come here to buy things like clothes and wigs in bulk, wash and resell them in the market,” she explained. She added that while wigs are popular in Lagos, they are particularly valued in northern Nigeria.

Health Risks of Wearing Scavenged Wigs
Health experts have raised serious concerns about the health risks associated with wearing wigs found at dumpsites. Dermatologists warn that the wigs could carry fungal infections like ringworm (Tinea capitis), bacterial infections that lead to scalp boils, and even parasites like head lice and mites.

Dr. Roli Madubuko, a Consultant Physician and Dermatologist, cautioned that such wigs may also cause allergic reactions and skin irritations due to the chemicals used in their treatment. She warned that wearing improperly fitted wigs can also result in scalp damage and hair loss.

Similarly, Dr. Nkiruka Onodugo, another dermatologist, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the potential risks of wearing wigs that may have been disinfected improperly or not at all.

Conclusion
Despite the economic opportunities presented by the resale of scavenged wigs, dermatologists urge caution. The health risks, including infections and long-term scalp damage, should not be underestimated. People who purchase these wigs, often unaware of their origins, are exposing themselves to unnecessary health hazards, which can have lasting consequences.