Four members of the same family have reportedly died after consuming amala in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The family’s dog was also said to have died after eating the same food, prompting the Kogi State Government to order an immediate 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 Commissioner for Health to commence a comprehensive investigation into the deaths.
According to Fanwo, the governor expressed concern over the incident and ordered authorities to determine whether food poisoning, contamination or another medical or environmental factor was responsible.
“The Chief Servant is deeply concerned by this tragic incident and has directed the Commissioner for Health to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths, with particular attention to the possibility of food poisoning or food contamination,” Fanwo said.
He added that relevant samples and available evidence must be examined in line with established public health procedures.
The commissioner said the reported death of the family’s dog after consuming the same food would also form part of the investigation.
Governor Ododo further directed the Ministry of Health to work with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure a thorough investigation and implement appropriate public health measures based on the findings.
The state government urged residents to remain calm and refrain from speculating about the cause of the deaths until the investigation is concluded.
Fanwo said the governor commiserated with the bereaved family and the people of Ihima, while assuring residents that further information would be released once verified facts emerge.
