In Igboliki Street, Akure, residents say they can tell when the local ponmo factory is in operation even without seeing the workers. The foul odour from the facility announces its presence.

For years, the stench from the cow-skin processing site and a nearby illegal dumpsite has made life uncomfortable for residents, many of whom say they have been forced to keep their windows shut and avoid spending time outdoors whenever the smell becomes unbearable.

But beyond the discomfort, residents are raising concerns over the safety of food processed in an environment they describe as unhygienic.

The ponmo factory, which has reportedly operated on the street for more than 21 years, came under scrutiny during a recent environmental sanitation inspection by officials of Akure South Local Government.

The inspection team, led by the council chairman, Gbenga Fasua, visited Oke Aro, Iro and Igboliki streets to assess compliance with environmental sanitation regulations.

At the ponmo processing site, officials reportedly discovered human faeces in buckets within the area where cow skin was being processed for consumption.

The shocking discovery raised fresh concerns about the sanitary conditions under which ponmo is produced and the potential risks to public health.

The operator of the facility, who identified herself as the President of the Ponmo Sellers Association in Ondo State, was present during the inspection.

ILLEGAL DUMPSITE DEEPENS RESIDENTS’ WOES

The situation is further compounded by an illegal dumpsite on the same street, which authorities say has become a gathering point for some youths allegedly involved in drug use and other unlawful activities.

For residents, the dumpsite is more than an environmental nuisance. It represents another source of discomfort and insecurity in a neighbourhood they say has endured years of neglect.

RESIDENTS DEMAND CLEAN AIR, SAFE FOOD

Several residents who spoke off camera expressed frustration over the persistent odour, while others declined to comment for fear of possible repercussions.

Speaking during the inspection, Fasua warned that anyone found processing food in unhygienic conditions would face prosecution.

He assured residents that the council would sustain its sanitation enforcement efforts to protect public health and ensure a cleaner environment.

For the people of Igboliki Street, the demand is straightforward: an end to the foul smell, hygienic food processing and a clean, safe neighbourhood where they can live without fear or discomfort.