At least five people have lost their lives while eight others are currently receiving treatment after allegedly consuming suspected poisoned meat in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday during a Ramadan lecture attended by members of three different families.
The victims were said to have shared a meal that included meat believed to have been contaminated with a toxic substance.
Confirming the incident in Jalingo, the state capital, the Nigeria Police Force disclosed that five of the affected individuals died shortly after consuming the meat, while eight others fell ill and were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
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Preliminary investigations indicate that the meat may have been contaminated with a chemical substance possibly used for rodent control.
Authorities noted that the victims were unaware of the contamination before consuming the food.
The remains of the deceased have been evacuated for necessary procedures, while those hospitalised are said to be responding to treatment.
Meanwhile, security agencies have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine how the substance got into the meat and whether the incident was accidental or deliberate.
Residents of the area have been advised to exercise caution when consuming food from unfamiliar sources and to promptly report any suspicious food items or sudden cases of illness to the relevant authorities in order to prevent further loss of life.
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