The abattoir at Mandate Market, Ilorin, has been shut down temporarily by the Kwara State Government over suspected meat poisoning
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Environment Dr. Abubakar Ayinla said the facility was closed down to allow for fumigation and general cleaning of the area following suspected meat poisoning in the abattoir.
Dr Ayinla said the closure was also to protect the public, adding that it would be reopened on Wednesday.
A joint statement by Commissioner for Health and Agriculture Dr Amina Ahmed El-Imam, and her Rural Development counterpart, Mrs. Toyosi Thomas-Adebayo, said: “Government has immediately confiscated all the suspected meat for laboratory tests and confirmation of claims after initial engagements with the Mandate Market stakeholders.
“Further information will be given as may become necessary. The government urges the public to be calm while the team establishes the truth of the rumour of poisoned meat. It also commends leadership of the market for their cooperation so far.”
