A tragic case of suspected food poisoning has claimed the lives of four individuals in Eruda, a community in Ilorin, Kwara State. The victims reportedly fell ill after consuming amala, a popular Nigerian dish made from yam or cassava flour.
Dr. Amina El-Imam, the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, revealed the details during a news conference on Tuesday. She explained that the victims, including a 70-year-old woman, her son, and her grandchildren, died after eating amala made from Lafun (cassava). The incident has raised concerns about food safety and hygiene in the area.
Upon receiving the report, the health ministry’s team visited the affected community. Dr. El-Imam stated, “Unfortunately, the 70-year-old woman fell ill and died after consuming amala. Her son and grandchildren, who also consumed the same food, were taken to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, where they sadly passed away.”
Preliminary investigations suggest that the underprocessed cassava used in the Lafun may have caused the chemical food poisoning. While several others who consumed the same meal are recovering in the hospital, Dr. El-Imam emphasized the need for improved personal and environmental hygiene to prevent such incidents.
In addition to this incident, Dr. El-Imam reported a separate case of gastroenteritis in the Osin Gada area of Ilorin West Local Government Area. One child died from the disease, characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, but immediate medical intervention has helped other affected patients recover.
