Kogi State Government has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of four members of the same family in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of the state.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, in a statement on Saturday in Lokoja, said the probe followed the consumption of a local delicacy identified as Amala.
He said the directive was given by Governor Ahmed Ododo, who described the incident as deeply troubling.
According to Fanwo, the governor had directed the Commissioner for Health to commence an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, with specific focus on the possibility of food poisoning or contamination.
“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 stated.
He added that the investigation would seek to establish the facts and determine whether the food consumed by the deceased was contaminated, or if any other medical or environmental factor contributed to the deaths.
He noted that relevant samples and available evidence would be examined in line with established public health procedures.
The government is also concerned by reports that the family’s dog died after consuming the same meal, adding that the development would be included in the scope of the investigation.
He said the governor had mandated the Ministry of Health to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure the probe was thorough and that appropriate public health measures were implemented based on the findings.
“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,” Fanwo stated.
The governor commiserated with the bereaved family and the people of Ihima over the painful loss, and prayed that God would grant them strength and comfort.
He assured residents of Kogi State that the government would release further information to the public as soon as verified facts emerge from the ongoing investigation.
The incident occurred in Ihima, headquarters of Okehi LGA in Kogi Central Senatorial District.
