The Enugu State Government has issued a warning to butchers and poultry farmers, urging them to refrain from the unwholesome practice of selling animals and chickens that died under mysterious circumstances.
The warning follows reports from concerned citizens who alerted authorities about the presence of animals that had reportedly died from flu and other zoonotic diseases in the meat market.
The government has therefore threatened to impose sanctions on any farmer or meat seller caught engaging in this unhealthy practice.
The statement, released in a press briefing on Monday, was jointly signed by the Commissioner for Health, Prof Ikechukwu Obi, and the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru.
They noted that the government has activated its departments of public health, veterinary services, local government disease surveillance, and notification officers to investigate the alleged practices.
The commissioners strongly condemned the practice, stressing that consuming dead animals poses serious health risks to consumers. They vowed to take action, as state health officials are currently inspecting livestock farms and abattoirs as part of the ongoing investigation, and those responsible will face consequences.
Part of the statement read: “The government reiterates that the sale of animals that died of unknown causes outside the normal methods of preparation is a serious crime. There are grave health risks associated with consuming such meat as it can lead to zoonotic diseases which are easily transmitted from animals to humans.”
The government urged the public to stay vigilant and be on the lookout for such practices, noting that these actions could lead to epidemics with serious health challenges.
Additionally, the statement encouraged people to report any suspicions using the following ministry hotlines: 08037178703, 08066865511, 08037431577, or 08033375344.