By Destiny Uko
Despite public health warnings and regulatory bans, Sniper remains a go-to solution for the elimination of rodents in many Nigerian homes. Originally intended for agricultural use, the pesticide has been widely used as a quick fix for domestic pests—even though its health risks are well known.
Cheap and fast-acting
Sniper’s continued popularity boils down to three main factors: affordability, availability and instant effectiveness. Many Nigerians see it as a simple, no-fuss solution to their rodent problems. Unfortunately, what they gain in convenience, they lose in safety.
Dichlorvos, a highly toxic chemical, is the major constituent of Sniper. According to the World Health Organization, exposure to dichlorvos—through inhalation or skin absorption—can result in dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and, in prolonged cases, even death.
While it’s effective against rats, it is harmful to humans, especially in small, poorly ventilated spaces.
A ban that fell flat
In 2019, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) placed a ban on the production and sale of small-sized Sniper bottles intended for domestic use.
Yet enforcement has been lax. Today, the product still circulates widely in markets and households across Nigeria.
Safer and affordable alternatives
Thankfully, there are less harmful and equally effective alternatives to Sniper, many of which are relatively cheap.
Mechanical traps
One of these is the mechanical trap. Traps like spring traps, metal cages, and sticky boards are accessible in stores, markets and supermarkets. When placed in strategic locations like the food stores, kitchens, and dark corners, with smoked fish, pieces of meat and bread as bait, they can be even more efficient.
Peppermint oil
This natural repellent is offensive to rats. Spraying the oil at entry points, dark corners and storage rooms, especially at night, can deter rodents from entering the house altogether.
Homemade repellents
Mixtures made from garlic, onion, ground pepper and water, or crushed bitter kola, are viable options. The mix produces a strong smell that repels rodents, when placed strategically around the house.
Safer rodenticides
Products like Killrat and Ratox are specially formulated for home use. They come in small sachets and are produced specifically to target rodents. When applying them, be sure to put on hand gloves, keep out of reach of children, and follow the instructions set by the manufacturers.
Cats
Yes, cats are even more effective. Their presence alone often scares rats away. While grown cats may be expensive, kittens are usually more affordable and still develop into savvy hunters.
Prevention is the best strategy
Rather than wait for rodents to invade, take preventive measures. Give no room to infestation by maintaining a clean environment, disposing off waste, sealing holes in the ceiling, on the wall, or on the floor, and preserving food items in airtight containers.
Rodents are opportunistic—they only invade the house when they sense easy access to food and shelter. Stay on guard always.
Many communities lack adequate information about the adverse danger of Sniper. Community authorities, church leaders, and market heads all have a role to play in spreading the word and forestalling future occurrences.
Sniper’s “kill quick” reputation may make it tempting, but its risks far outweigh the benefits. With safer, affordable alternatives available, there’s no reason to keep choosing a deadly solution to a fixable problem.
Despite regulatory bans, Sniper remains a prevalent choice for rodent control in Nigerian homes due to its affordability and effectiveness. However, Sniper contains the toxic chemical dichlorvos, which can cause severe health issues, including dizziness, nausea, and even death, particularly in confined spaces. The ban by Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control in 2019 has seen weak enforcement, with Sniper still widely available.
Safer alternatives exist, such as mechanical traps, peppermint oil, homemade repellents, safer rodenticides like Killrat and Ratox, and using cats. These options are not only effective but often affordable. Moreover, prevention through cleanliness, proper waste disposal, and sealing entry points in homes is crucial to prevent infestations. Community awareness regarding Sniper's dangers and promoting safer alternatives is vital. Ultimately, the risks associated with Sniper surpass its benefits, highlighting the importance of adopting safer, more sustainable rodent control methods.
