Rita Odafe
Several family members in Egba community of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State have been hospitalized after consuming pap, also known as “Akamu,” made from corn.
A widow named Amina Isah, along with her four children and two grandchildren, fell ill after allegedly experiencing food poisoning due to the pap they consumed.
Reports indicate that the widow and her family members started vomiting after consuming the pap and were immediately taken to Gana Clinic, a private clinic in the area.
Before receiving treatment at the hospital, the victims were reportedly in a coma state.
The clinic’s proprietor, Dr. Oyaje Sule, confirmed the incident, mentioning that three of the patients, including the widow, were admitted to the clinic in an unconscious state.
According to Sule, the family mistakenly used guinea corn remnants mixed with chemicals meant for planting to prepare the pap.
He expressed that the victims were in critical condition, emphasizing the significance of the woman within the community.
“The family members’ ages range from three to 30 years, excluding their elderly grandmother. Upon their arrival, the woman and two others were unconscious, but thankfully, they have been resuscitated,” shared Sule.
He added, “I was informed that the family inadvertently mixed chemicals with the guinea corn intended for planting. After planting the guinea corn, they brought the remaining portion home, washed and ground it to make the pap.
“It was after consuming the pap this morning that they began vomiting, with some losing consciousness before being rushed to my clinic,” Sule explained.
The affected individuals were identified as Benjamin, Piko, Esther, Hassan, Emmanuel, and another unnamed person.
