A tragic incident has occurred in Egba Community of Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, where seven members of a family were hospitalised after consuming pap made from corn, suspected to be contaminated with chemicals.
According to reports, the family members, including a widow, Amina Isah, her four children, and two grandchildren, fell ill after drinking the pap, popularly known as “Akamu”.
They were rushed to Gana Clinic, a private hospital in the area, where they received treatment. Dr. Oyaje Sule, the proprietor of the clinic, confirmed the incident and stated that three of the patients, including the widow, were brought in unconscious.
He revealed that the family had unknowingly used guinea corn mixed with chemicals for planting to make the pap. The victims, whose ages range from three to 30 years, aside from the elderly grandmother, were in critical condition.
However, Dr. Sule reported that the woman and two others who were initially unconscious have been revived. The incident highlights the dangers of food poisoning and the importance of proper food handling and preparation.
The police spokesperson, SP. Catherine Anene, was unavailable for comment at the time of this report. The victims have been identified as Benjamin, Piko, Esther, Hassan Emmanuel, and one other. The community is in shock, and an inves- tigation into the incident is expected to follow.
