The Impact of Abattoir Activities and Management in Residential Neighbourhoods: A Case Study of Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Abstract

Abattoir is one of the facilities available in most towns and cities, as the killing of animals to supply meat for human consumption in them is a common practice in Nigeria. The danger posed on the local built environment and health of residents by those abattoirs located in residential neighborhoods as a result of pollution from their management is of great concern. The study therefore investigates the direct and indirect effects of management of abattoirs on the quality of local built environment and the health of residents in their vicinity using Ogbomoso as a case study. Water samples from selected wells in the study area were collected for analysis to investigate the effect on the water quality. Also, residents of buildings located approximately 100meters radius to the abattoir were randomly selected for interview using relevant indicators to investigate effects on their health. The result was analyzed using frequency count, chi-square and correlation test. The study indicated pollution of wells and air quality of the local built environment in the vicinity of the abattoir as well as reduced quality of health of residents in the area, as there were reported cases of elevation of excessive coughing, typhoid fever, diarrhea, and malaria and muscle pains among these residents. The study concluded with appropriate recommendations to address the problem and as well suggested the exclusion of abattoir facility from residential neighbourhood.