At least four persons have reportedly died, while several others are receiving medical treatment after consuming a suspected poisonous herbal mixture in Oju Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident reportedly began on Monday, November 2, when residents who purchased the herbal preparation from three male traders during the Ihiejwo market day developed similar symptoms after consumption.
Sources in the community disclosed that some of the affected victims are in critical condition and receiving treatment at different hospitals.
The latest reported death occurred on Thursday, following the arrival in Oju of the body of a third victim who reportedly died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Makurdi. Earlier reports had put the death toll at three.
The three traders allegedly linked to the sale of the herbal mixture were identified as Alhaji Sule Mai Magani, Bello Mohamed and Musa Kala.
They were reportedly apprehended by members of the Igede Youth Council, in collaboration with the Oju Township Youth leadership, before being handed over to the police for investigation. The suspects were subsequently transferred to the Benue State Police Command in Makurdi.
Related News:
Former Benue Chief Judge, Justice Adam Onum Is Dead
Gunmen Kill Four, Injure Five in Benue Market Attack
Suspected Herdsmen Attack Benue Communities, Six Killed, Several Others Missing
Speaking on the incident, the Chairman of Oju Local Government Area, Jackson Ominyi, confirmed that three people had died as of Wednesday, adding that efforts were ongoing to establish the actual number of casualties.
He said the local government had mobilised its security and health officials to manage the situation, while victims were receiving treatment at the General Hospital, Oju, with the health department providing necessary support.
Meanwhile, the President of the Igede Youth Council, Comrade Idoko John-Frank Ozzidi, called on the Benue State Government to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
He commended the youths for resisting the temptation to take the law into their hands and instead handing the suspects over to the police.
Ozzidi also appealed to political officeholders from the area to intervene and ensure that survivors receive adequate medical attention.
Medical experts reportedly believed to be from the World Health Organisation (WHO) have also arrived in the area to support efforts to respond to the incident.
As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while investigations and efforts to establish the full number of casualties were ongoing.
About the Author
