The Kogi State Government has launched an investigation into the deaths of four members of the same family who reportedly died after consuming amala in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of the state.
The family’s dog was also reported to have died after eating the same meal, raising concerns about possible food poisoning or contamination.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said Governor Ahmed Ododo had directed the Commissioner for Health to immediately commence a comprehensive investigation into the tragic incident.
Fanwo said the governor was deeply concerned and had ordered health authorities to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths.
“The investigation must establish the facts and determine whether the food consumed by the deceased was contaminated or whether any other medical or environmental factor contributed to the deaths,” the statement said in part.
He added that relevant food samples and other available evidence would 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 a key part of the investigation.
According to Fanwo, the governor has directed the Ministry of Health to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure a thorough investigation and implement appropriate public health measures based on the findings.
He urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculating about the cause of the deaths until the investigation is concluded and verified facts are made available.
“The government urges members of the public to remain calm and avoid drawing conclusions about the cause of the deaths until the investigation is concluded and the facts are established by the relevant authorities,” he said.
Governor Ododo also commiserated with the bereaved family and the people of Ihima, praying for strength and comfort for those affected by the tragedy.
The Kogi State Government assured residents that further information would be released as soon as verified findings emerge from the investigation.
