From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Cross River State Government has vowed to continue its crackdown on unsafe meat processing practices, declaring a firm stance against the use of tyres and toxic chemicals in the preparation and preservation of animal skin, popularly known as “kpomo” or “ganda.”
The Commissioner for Health, Henry Egbe Ayuk, expressed serious concern over the growing trend among some butchers who roast animal skin with burnt tyres and preserve it with hazardous substances such as formalin.
He described the practice as dangerous, illegal, and a gross violation of public health laws.
The commissioner further warned that such practices expose consumers to severe health risks, including cancer, respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, cardiovascular complications, skin and eye irritation, and neurological disorders, conditions that contribute significantly to increased morbidity and mortality.
Egbe Ayuk stressed that the government would not relent in enforcing compliance, adding that offenders would be sanctioned in line with public health laws and the Environmental Health Practice Regulations (Food Safety Regulations) 2024.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health, through its Food Safety and Nutrition Department led by Dr. Obogo Simon Idoko, has intensified sensitisation and monitoring exercises across major slaughter facilities, including the Marian Market pig and goat slaughter sections, as well as the Asiabang cattle slaughter unit.
During the exercise, meat handlers were educated on standard hygiene and safety practices required in abattoirs.
These include compulsory medical examinations at government-approved general hospitals, provision of adequate toilet facilities, routine disinfection of slaughter premises to prevent disease vectors, and the use of clean, safe water for meat processing.
Dr. Idoko reiterated that compliance with these standards is mandatory, warning that continued violations would attract enforcement actions from the ministry.
Responding, the Chairman of the Goat Butchers Association at Marian Market, Mr. Edem Etefia, appealed for government support in providing water and waste disposal facilities.
He assured that members would comply with directives, including the use of firewood instead of tyres and plastics, mandatory medical screening at approved hospitals, and improved sanitation practices.
In the same vein, the chairman of the Pig Slaughter Association, Mr. Sixtus Edehe, acknowledged the concerns raised by authorities, noting challenges in adhering to approved medical requirements, but pledged improved cooperation and compliance going forward.
