The Bayelsa State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of the unhygienic processing of imported cowhides, popularly known as ponmo, citing concerns over risks to public health.

The directive followed a joint inspection of the state's central abattoir by the Commissioner for Health, Seiyefa Brisibe, the Commissioner for Environment, Ebi Ololo, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof. Sese Bekes, and other members of the state government.

Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe said the inspection uncovered imported raw cowhides being processed under unsanitary conditions, including the use of contaminated water and storage practices that showed signs of decomposition, describing the findings as a major food safety concern and announcing the immediate suspension of the practice.

Brisibe said Governor Douye Diri has directed the activation of a multi-sectoral monitoring team to intensify inspections of food processing facilities, confiscate unsafe products and remove them from circulation, adding that compulsory health screening for food processors and increased surveillance of abattoirs had also been ordered.