No fewer than five siblings from Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State was declared dead from suspected food poisoning, leaving their mother hospitalised in critical condition.
The incident which reportedly happened on Saturday, May 3, threw the family and the entire community into mourning, with relatives and neighbours seen consoling the bereaved family
Speaking during the visit of the sympathizers, A 79-year-old retired soldier and father of the deceased children, Pa Robinson Aghalu said that the tragedy began shortly after the children ate a meal prepared by their mother.
According to him, he said that the children started experiencing stomach aches, vomiting, and other symptoms, which worsened over time and were rushed to the hospital.
“Despite efforts to save them, five of the six children died at various hospitals in the area, including a nearby maternity clinic, Iyienu Mission Hospital, and Crown Hospital.” He said
“The mother, who also fell ill with similar symptoms, is currently hospitalised. A doctor, who managed the mother’s case, confirmed that the likely cause of the illness was food poisoning.”
The couple’s only surviving child was away at the time of the incident, studying with a relative.
The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga who confirmed the incident said that the food samples have been collected for forensic analysis.
“Meanwhile, the bodies of the children have been recovered and deposited in a morgue.
