A tragic incident of suspected food poisoning has claimed the lives of four family members in the Magama Jibia area of Katsina State after they allegedly consumed a meal of spaghetti.
The victims, identified as Hussaina Ayuba, Ahmed Ayuba, and Nana Ayuba, were pronounced dead at Jibia General Hospital following consumption of the meal. A fourth victim, 12-year-old Hafsat Ayuba, is currently receiving treatment and reportedly responding well to medical care.
Security and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama disclosed the incident via his verified X account, revealing that the victims were rushed to the hospital shortly after eating the meal but succumbed while undergoing treatment.
In a development suggesting possible foul play, police have arrested 20-year-old Fatima Abdulkadir, who allegedly prepared the spaghetti, along with two other unnamed suspects in connection with the incident.
"The sources disclosed that Fatima Abdulkadir, who prepared the spaghetti noodles allegedly consumed by the victims, along with two others, has been arrested in connection with the incident," Makama stated.
Authorities have visited the scene and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the deaths. The bodies of the deceased have been released to their relatives for burial according to Islamic rites.
This incident adds to growing concerns about food safety in the region, with several cases of food poisoning reported in recent months across various parts of Nigeria.
The police have yet to release an official statement regarding the nature of the suspected poisoning or the motive behind what appears to be a deliberate act.
