The Cross River State Government has stepped up efforts to protect public health, warning against the dangerous use of tyres and toxic chemicals in the processing of animal skin, popularly known as “kpormo.”
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, raised concern over the growing practice among some butchers who roast animal skin with tyres and preserve it with harmful substances such as formalin. He described the trend as a violation of public health laws and a serious threat to consumers.
According to the Commissioner, these unsafe methods expose residents to life-threatening conditions, including cancer, respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis, cardiovascular diseases, skin and eye irritations, and neurological disorders, all of which contribute to increased morbidity and mortality.
The Commissioner emphasised strict compliance with these guidelines, warning that the government would enforce sanctions in line with public health laws and the Environmental Health Practice Regulations (Food Safety Regulations) 2024 where necessary.
In a bid to curb the menace, the Ministry of Health, through its Food Safety and Nutrition Department led by Dr. Obogo Simon Idoko, is carrying out a sensitisation exercise across major slaughter points, including Marian Market pig and goat slaughter sections, as well as the Asiabang cow slaughter facility.
During the engagements, meat handlers were educated on standard hygiene and safety practices expected in abattoirs. These, according to Dr. Idoko, include compulsory medical examinations at government-approved general hospitals, provision of proper toilet facilities, regular disinfection of premises to control rodents and disease vectors, and the use of clean water for all processing activities.
Responding, the Chairman of the Goat Butchers Association at Marian Market, Mr. Edem Etefia, appealed for government support in the areas of water supply and waste disposal. He, however, assured that members would comply with the directive to use firewood instead of tyres and plastics, undertake medical examinations at designated general hospitals, and improve sanitation.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Pig Slaughter Association, Mr. Sixtus Edehe, acknowledged that some butchers prefer private hospitals, which are not recognised by government authorities, but pledged improved compliance going forward.
Kingsley Agim
