Inquiry Launched In Lagos Over Sale Of Dead Chickens

Inquiry Launched In Lagos Over Sale Of Dead Chickens....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Lagos State Government has initiated an investigation into the practice of repackaging and selling chickens that have been killed by rodents, following a PUNCH Healthwise report highlighting this dangerous activity……CONTINUE READING 

Dr. Mary Ogunleye, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Agriculture and Chief Veterinary Epidemiologist, confirmed the investigation. She reached out to PUNCH Healthwise seeking more details about the markets and their locations mentioned in the report.

In her communication, Ogunleye requested specific market names and locations to aid the investigation, stating, “We need to pinpoint the exact markets involved to effectively target our investigation.” The investigation aims to protect public health and penalize the involved traders.

PUNCH Healthwise’s report, titled “Cheap Poison: How Lagos Traders Repackage and Sell Dead Chickens After Rodent Attacks,” detailed how some traders repackage and sell chickens that have been compromised by rodent infestations. The report noted that these chickens are sold to vulnerable residents who are unable to afford fresh poultry, raising concerns about potential health risks, including the spread of Lassa fever from infected rats to humans.

Ogunleye assured that the findings of the investigation would be shared with PUNCH Healthwise once concluded. She added that the Veterinary Department is actively working on the investigation, which will require time due to the various market locations involved.

Regarding the use of modern cages, Ogunleye explained that while the state government supports livestock farmers and bird sellers through cooperative societies, individual farmers do not receive direct assistance. The government provides modern cages to these associations, emphasizing that traders should transition from outdated wooden cages to more modern alternatives.

Ogunleye concluded, “The investigation is ongoing, and we will update you with our findings next week. This process takes time, and we are collaborating with various stakeholders to address the issue effectively.”