The Enugu State government has issued a stern warning to butchers and poultry farmers, advising them against selling animals or chickens that have died under unexplained conditions to the public.
This cautionary message was delivered in a press release co-signed by Dr. Ikechukwu Obi, Commissioner for Health, and Mr. Patrick Ubru, Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation.
The government has warned that any individual caught engaging in this unsafe practice will face strict penalties. The warning comes in response to public concerns that animals, particularly those afflicted by flu and other zoonotic diseases, have been entering the meat market.
In response, the state has mobilized various agencies, including public health departments, veterinary services, and local disease surveillance teams, to investigate these allegations. The commissioners condemned the practice as inhumane, emphasizing the serious health risks associated with consuming meat from dead animals, which can lead to zoonotic diseases transferable from animals to humans.
The press release stated, “The government reiterates that selling animals that have died from unknown causes outside of standard preparation methods is a severe offense. There are significant health risks involved, including potential epidemics.”
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicions to the provided hotlines: 08037178703, 08066865511, 08037431577, or 08033375344.
