Have you heard?
The government of Nigeria has advised citizens against consuming hides (popularly known as ‘ponmo’), smoked meat and bush meat due to the outbreak of Anthrax in some neighbouring countries.
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development gave the caution in a statement.
According to the ministry, it was necessary to alert Nigerians on the outbreak of the disease which is currently ravaging northern Ghana bordering Burkina Faso and Togo.
Imagine hearing the news after consuming a delicious bowl of Amala, Ewedu and Gbegiri soup graciously garnished with assorted meat with peppered ponmo.
In fact, ponmo serves as a cheaper substitute to meat for the poor, with many calling it a ‘lifesaver’.
As expected, this news did not sit well with many lovers of this Nigerian delicacy as they have taken to social media to question the ministry’s caution.
I don’t know government’s problem with our Kpomo.
They should leave out life saver alone. If meat finishes and one kpomo is in the soup it saves life.
It has been saving life since ancient days and hasn’t been seen as dangerous.
Kpomo and bread
Kpomo and pepper
Kpomo and pear— Princess Anita (@Princes51013171) June 12, 2023
let the poor breath 😂, pomo is life🤭 pic.twitter.com/WTReagcRgG
— Coco 🥰❤️🥰🌺🥰🌺 (@adelekefiyinfo4) June 12, 2023
Experts say anthrax spores are naturally found in the soil and commonly affect domestic and wild animals. People can get infected with anthrax spores if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
However, anthrax is not a contagious disease, and so, one cannot get it by coming in close contact with an infected person.
If you have made up your mind that nothing can separate you from your love for ponmo, it is important to know the symptoms of anthrax, so that you will not be caught unfresh.
There are other healthy alternatives to ponmo. Fish, chicken, turkey, and snails are some. We can explore making our dish sumptuous without putting our health at risk, right?
Photo source: Uzoma Ozurumba
