See How Woman and Four Grandchildren Die from Suspected Food Poisoning in Ondo
A grieving man, Ademola Adeola, is calling on the Ondo State Government to investigate the tragic deaths of his mother and four children, which are believed to be linked to food poisoning from pap consumed in Akure, the state capital.
The heartbreaking incident took place on Gaga Street, Oke Aro, where Mrs. Esther Adeola and her four grandchildren lost their lives between Saturday and Sunday. Reports indicate that Mrs. Adeola was the first to die shortly after eating the pap, while her grandchildren—aged nine, eight, six, and three—followed the next day after suffering severe vomiting and stomach pain.
Describing the ordeal, Ademola recounted how his children fell ill right after their meal on Saturday morning, prompting him to rush them to the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH) in Akure. Unfortunately, his efforts to save them were in vain.
“They began vomiting and complaining of stomach pain after eating the pap. I hurried them to the General Hospital at UNIMED. One doctor questioned how I knew it was food poisoning and suggested I give them palm oil to drink,” he said.
Ademola expressed his frustration with the hospital’s response, claiming it lacked the necessary facilities to help the victims. He alleged that the doctors seemed uncertain about how to treat his children.
“I overheard one doctor say, ‘I don’t know what to give them, I’m tired.’ They later administered some medication, which I believe contributed to their deaths,” he lamented.
All five victims have been buried, leaving the family in deep mourning.
In response to the allegations, Dr. Banji Ajaka, the state Commissioner for Health, refuted claims of negligence at the hospital. He stated that the medical team, including four consultants, did everything possible to save the children.
“I was at the hospital myself. Our team worked diligently, but sadly, the children did not survive. It is false to say that the hospital lacked the necessary facilities for such cases,” Dr. Ajaka clarified.
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed that, while the incident wasn’t formally reported, officers from the B Division have visited the family’s home to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Spokesperson Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami stated, “Although this matter wasn’t reported at any police station, our officers have gone to the deceased’s residence to gather information ab
out what transpired.”
