Killer amala in Kogi as 4 family members die after meal
By OUR REPORTER, Lokoja
Four members of a family have reportedly died after eating amala in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, North Central Nigeria, prompting the state government to launch an investigation into the incident.
The state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, saying Governor Ahmed Ododo had directed the Ministry of Health to establish the cause of the deaths.
Fanwo said authorities would investigate the possibility that the victims died from food poisoning or contamination linked to the meal they consumed.
He explained that samples and other relevant evidence would be collected and examined in accordance with public health procedures.
The investigation was further prompted by reports that the family’s dog also died after eating the same food.
According to the commissioner, the animal’s death would be considered in determining whether contamination of the meal or another medical or environmental factor was responsible for the incident.
Fanwo said the Ministry of Health had been instructed to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate measures based on its findings.
He appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified claims about the cause of the deaths pending the outcome of the investigation.
The commissioner assured residents that the government would release verified information once the probe establishes the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Governor Ododo, Fanwo added, sympathised with the bereaved family and the people of Ihima, while praying for comfort and strength for those affected by the tragedy.
