Bayelsa suspends unhygienic processing of imported cowhides

The Bayelsa State government has taken decisive action to halt the unhygienic processing of imported cowhides, commonly called ponmo, citing serious public health risks. Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, announced the immediate suspension following a joint inspection of the state's central abattoir.

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The imported cowhides were being processed into edible forms using contaminated water and stored under conditions that showed visible signs of decomposition and unhygienic handling.

The inspection uncovered alarming practices, including the washing of cowhides with contaminated water and storage under conditions that showed visible signs of decomposition. "These practices are hazardous and pose serious threats to public health and individual well-being. They must stop with immediate effect," Brisibe stated.

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These practices are hazardous and pose serious threats to public health and individual well-being. They must stop with immediate effect.

Governor Douye Diri has directed the activation of a multi-sectoral monitoring team to combat illegal and unsanitary food processing activities statewide. This task force will intensify inspections, confiscate unsafe products, and ensure their removal from circulation. Additionally, the government mandates compulsory health screenings for food processors and enhanced surveillance of abattoirs and food handling facilities.

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Following the directive of Governor Douye Diri, a multi-sectoral monitoring team has been activated to crack down on these illegal and unhygienic practices and ensure every unsafe product is removed from circulation.

The government urges residents to report any suspected unhygienic food processing activities, promoting a "See Something, Say Something, Take Action" approach. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to enforcing food safety regulations through inter-agency collaboration.

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We encourage the public to adopt a ‘See Something, Say Something, Take Action’ approach by reporting suspicious or unhygienic food processing activities to the relevant authorities.