Family seeks investigation in deaths of grandma, four children over food poisoning

A family in Akure is demanding an investigation into the deaths of a grandmother and her four grandchildren following a suspected case of food poisoning.

The son of 68-year-old Esther Adeola claimed his mother and her grandchildren died after consuming liquid pap at their home on Gaga Street, Oke Aro, Akure, last Saturday.

According to reports, the grandmother died shortly after consuming the pap, while the grandchildren, aged nine, eight, six, and three, passed away the following day after experiencing vomiting and stomach aches.

The children were rushed to the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH) in Akure, but efforts to revive them were unsuccessful.

The father alleged that the hospital lacked the necessary facilities for resuscitation.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, refuted claims of negligence at UNIMEDTH, stating that doctors and consultants did everything possible to save the victims.

He expressed his condolences to the grieving family.

Police spokesperson Funmilayo Odunlami confirmed that while no official report was filed, police officers visited the family’s residence to gather information about the tragic incident.