In a heartbreaking incident, a family of seven residing in Runjin Barmo village of Kajiji District in Shagari local government area of Sokoto state tragically passed away after consuming a cassava meal.
The family members lost their lives shortly after ingesting the ill-fated cassava dish, which is suspected to have been contaminated during preparation.
During a visit to the village for condolences, Asabe Balarabe, the state Commissioner for Health, was informed by the village head, Malam Muhammadu Modi Magajin Runjin Barmo, that the victims had eaten the cassava meal during their dinner.
The victims included the father, Malam Abubakar, his wife, A’ishatu Abubakar, and their five children.
It was noted that the cassava in question had been used by four other households in the village, but no other cases of illness were reported in those households.
Representing the community, Magaji expressed gratitude to the state governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, for his concern, as conveyed through the Commissioner.
Balarabe mentioned that their visit was to investigate the cause of the tragic incident and provide the state government with the necessary information for further action.
She indicated that samples would be taken from a teenager who survived consuming the suspected cassava meal.
Offering condolences to the affected community, she prayed for the souls of those who perished and urged the people of the state to promptly report any unusual diseases for intervention by the ministry.
Sani Bello Tambuwal, the Health Director for Shagari local government area, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for her attention and hoped that the support would continue.