The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert cow dung at the Lokpanta Regional Cattle Market in Umunneochi Local Government Area into biogas, aiming to provide a cleaner alternative for roasting cow legs, heads, and skin. The initiative is part of efforts to improve sanitation and eliminate the use of tires for roasting, which poses health risks.
Mr. Peter Ekekwe, Deputy General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) for Abia North, revealed this during an inspection of the market’s sanitary conditions and compliance with government directives. Ekekwe stated that consultations with experts are advanced, with the biogas project potentially starting within a month. “We want to stop the use of tires in roasting animals. We are consulting with experts on the conversion of cow dung to biogas,” he said.
Ekekwe expressed dissatisfaction with the market’s hygiene, particularly at the newly built abattoir, describing the conditions as unacceptable. He directed butchers and traders to improve cleanliness, warning that the government would not tolerate further neglect. “I’m not impressed with the sanitary situation, especially at the abattoir. They can do much better,” he noted.
In addition, Ekekwe issued a one-week ultimatum to traders operating outside the fenced market to relocate inside or face demolition of their structures. He emphasized that previous warnings had been ignored, stating, “By next week, we will demolish all shops and goat markets outside the fence if they are not removed.” The fencing, he explained, enhances security, controls access, and improves the market’s aesthetics.
Alhaji Abdullahi Abdullmidu, Vice Chairman of the cattle market, commended the government’s efforts and pledged traders’ compliance. He noted initial fears of eviction due to the fencing project but highlighted improved security since its completion. “We’re happy now with what the government is doing, and we’ll obey everything they tell us. We’re convinced the government means well for us,” Abdullmidu said. He also praised Governor Alex Otti for his leadership and enhanced security along the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway.
Ekekwe thanked Governor Otti for his support and urged traders to align with the state’s directives to ensure a cleaner, safer, and more organized market.
