No fewer than five children have died, while eight others are receiving treatment after allegedly consuming meat contaminated with rat poison in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Residents awoke to the tragedy early Wednesday after several children began showing symptoms consistent with food poisoning.
How the incident occurred
According to community sources, the poisoned meat was reportedly prepared by a man who intended to use it to kill rodents in his home.
He allegedly warned his son not to touch the meat after storing it indoors.
However, his daughter is said to have cooked and eaten the meat before sharing it with other children attending a nearby Islamiyya school.
About 13 children reportedly consumed the food before symptoms of poisoning appeared.
Victims rushed to hospital
The affected children were rushed to General TY Danjuma Hospital for emergency treatment. Medical personnel later confirmed five deaths, while eight others are responding to treatment.
The incident has plunged the community into mourning as families struggle to cope with the sudden loss.
Police confirm arrest, investigation ongoing
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Taraba State Police Command, ASP Victor Mshelizah, confirmed the incident, stating that the man involved has been taken into custody.
He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the poisoning.
Authorities say further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
