Four Die, 14 Hospitalised After Suspected Herbal Poisoning in Benue Community

A suspected case of natural poisoning has claimed the lives of 4 folks and left no less than 14 others critically unwell in Oju Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident reportedly occurred after residents of the Igede neighborhood bought and consumed natural preparations offered through the Ihiejwo market day by three merchants recognized as Alhaji Mai Magamani, Mohamed, and Musa Kolo.

According to eyewitness accounts, the well being disaster got here to gentle on 2 November 2026 when a number of shoppers of the natural combination developed comparable signs shortly after taking the product. The first demise was recorded on Tuesday morning, adopted by a second fatality early Wednesday. Two further victims later died, bringing the demise toll to 4.

More than 14 affected individuals are presently receiving therapy at hospital, with a number of reported to be in crucial situation.

Following the incident, the three suspected sellers have been apprehended by members of the Igede Youth Council and the Oju Township Youth management earlier than being handed over to the police.

Community chief and President of the Igede Youth Council, Comrade John-Frank Ozzidi, urged the Benue State Government to conduct an intensive investigation and be certain that anybody discovered accountable is prosecuted. He additionally counseled residents for remaining calm and permitting regulation enforcement authorities to deal with the matter.

The case has reportedly been transferred from the Oju Divisional Police Headquarters to the Benue State Police Command for additional investigation.

Confirming the incident, Chairman of Oju Local Government Council, Mr Jackson Ominyi, stated authorities have been nonetheless verifying the variety of fatalities. He famous that three deaths had been formally reported to him on the time, whereas different victims have been receiving therapy on the General Hospital, Oju.

Ominyi added that native authorities officers, safety personnel and well being staff had been mobilised to handle the scenario and help these affected. He additionally confirmed that the suspected natural vendor had been arrested and transferred to Makurdi for additional investigation.

Efforts to acquire a response from the Benue State Police Command have been unsuccessful, as Police Public Relations Officer DSP Peter Aondongu had not commented on the matter on the time of reporting.

Authorities are persevering with investigations to find out the reason for the suspected poisoning and set up accountability for the deaths and diseases.

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