Four siblings residing in the Ogidi, Idemili North Government Area of Anambra State, have reportedly died of suspected food poisoning.
The incident which occurred on May 6, also landed the mother of the victims in critical condition at the hospital.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, the mother of the victims had also partaken in the meal.
Speaking to Punch, the father of the deceased children, Pa Robinson Aghalu, 79, said the incident began shortly after the children ate a meal prepared by their mother.
The children, according to their father began experiencing stomach aches, vomiting, and other symptoms, which worsened over time, leading to them being 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.
“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 father disclosed to the medium.
The couple’s only surviving child was said to be away at the time of the incident. The bereaved family is said to in urgent need of support.
Clarifying the number of deceased children, the spokesperson of the Anambra Police, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command only learnt of four deceased siblings, not five.
“What I have is four,” he said in a text message to THE WHISTLER.
The command, however, noted in a subsequent statement that food samples had been collected for forensic analysis.
The statement read partly: “In the course of preliminary investigations, the police obtained samples of the suspected food, which have been forwarded for forensic analysis to determine the actual cause of the incident.
“Officers are also conducting interviews with residents and other potential witnesses within the neighbourhood to gather relevant information that may aid the ongoing investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the unfortunate incident.
“The Command extends its heartfelt sympathies to the affected family and wishes the mother a speedy recovery, as her account will be vital in shedding more light on the circumstances surrounding the case.
“The bodies of the deceased children were recovered and have since been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy.”
The Command assured the public that a thorough investigation was underway, and further developments would be communicated soon.
