Residents of Ikueyi community in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, have been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of four children after they reportedly consumed a meal prepared from cassava flour, popularly known as amala, and okra soup.
The victims, aged between four and 12 years, were said to have died after eating the meal in two separate families, raising fears of possible food contamination.
Several other persons who ate the same food also fell ill, while a dog that reportedly consumed part of the meal died, further deepening concerns over what may have caused the incident.
Five of the affected victims are currently receiving treatment at the Confluence University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Okene, where medical personnel are working to stabilise their condition.
The heartbreaking incident has left the Ikueyi community in shock, with residents calling for a thorough investigation to determine whether the cassava flour or another component of the meal was contaminated.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Monday Amoka, visited the community and ordered an immediate investigation into the suspected food poisoning.
The chairman directed relevant authorities to uncover the cause of the tragedy and take necessary steps to prevent a recurrence.
He also appealed to residents not to panic or take the law into their own hands while investigations continue.
“The people of the community should remain calm, as efforts are being intensified to ensure the recovery of the victims in the hospital,” Amoka said.
Health and local government officials are expected to conduct laboratory analyses on samples of the food to determine the exact cause of the deaths.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to provide answers to the circumstances surrounding the incident and guide measures to protect residents from similar occurrences in the future.
