KWARA: Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Tragedy has hit the Eruda community in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State as a suspected case of food poisoning has wiped out the lives of four members of a family and to this end, it will not be wrong if the food is called the meal of death.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam, confirmed the incident at a press conference, revealing that the victims passed away after consuming Amala that was believed to be contaminated with poison.
Dr El-Imam reported that the family members fell ill and tragically succumbed to the suspected food poisoning after consuming Lafun-Amala made from cassava flour.
He said that upon investigation, it was found that those who ate the mixture of both Lafun and Amala fell ill, whereas those who consumed yam flour without Lafun were unaffected.
The ministry’s health team visited the community to assess the situation following reports of the family’s loss.
Dr El-Imam expressed that the incident is suspected to be a case of chemical food poisoning, possibly due to under-processed cassava used in the production of Lafun.
The Commissioner further added that one death was recorded from Gastroenteritis, and efforts are being made to contain the disease and provide treatment to affected individuals.
She emphasized the importance of optimal personal and environmental hygiene in preventing such outbreaks and highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure the containment of the illness.
As the community comes to terms with this tragic loss, officials and healthcare workers are striving to provide necessary support, treatment, and interventions to prevent further spread of the illness and safeguard the health of the residents.