5 die, 8 hospitalized after eating poisonous meat in Taraba

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo

At least, five people have been confirmed dead while eight others were hospitalized after eating a suspected poisonous meat in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba state.

The Taraba state police command has confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday in Jalingo.

The statement released by the command PPRO, Victor Mshelizah, said the victims from three different families consumed the meat on Tuesday during a Ramadan lecture, after which five died.

According to the statement, the remaining eight are currently receiving treatment at different hospitals in  the area, while investigation has already commenced to ascertain the course of the incident.

The police disclosed that preliminary investigations has indicated that the  victims may have unknowingly eaten meat contaminated with a toxic substance believed to have been used for rodent control.

“The eight affected individuals are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals in the area, while the remains of the deceased have been evacuated for necessary procedures.

“A comprehensive investigation is now underway to unravel the circumstances behind the tragic event”.

The Command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious food items, sudden illnesses, or related incidents to security agencies to avert further tragedy.

“The reception provided an opportunity to exchange New Year greetings, renew diplomatic goodwill, and strengthen engagement between Nigeria and its international partners. It concluded with a group photograph and informal interactions among participants.

“Nigeria enters 2026 as a confident, constructive, and stabilising partner, committed to peace, economic integration, democratic resilience, and responsible global cooperation” the statement concluded.