Enugu warns against sale, consumption of animals killed by diseases

The Enugu state government says it will sanction any farmer or meat seller caught selling dead animals for human consumption.

In a statement issued by Ikechukwu Obi, the commissioner for health, and Patrick Ubru, the commissioner for agriculture, the government expressed concern over reports that some individuals were selling animals that died from flu and other zoonotic diseases at the market.

The government said it had received reports from concerned citizens about the practice.

In response, the state government says it has activated its public health, veterinary, and local government disease surveillance departments to investigate the claims.

Describing the act as “unacceptable,” the commissioners emphasised that consuming such meat could lead to serious health risks for consumers.

“The government reiterates that the sale of animals that died of unknown causes outside the normal methods of preparation is a serious crime,” the statement reads.

“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 commissioners also assured the public that state health officers are currently visiting livestock farms and abattoirs as part of the investigation.

They urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the sale of dead animals.

The state government added that those found guilty of the crime will be unpunished, as it poses a significant threat to public health.