Abia State Government has reacted to the death of about seven persons of same family who died after eating barbecue, popularly known as Suya in Umueze, Umuahia North LGA of the state.
The government calls for calm as relevant medical examinations are being carried out to determine the cause of their death, the Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu said in a statement.
Metronetworknews had reported that the father of the family had bought the suya from where other family members, including extended family who came for holidays ate.
Only the man’s wife, Ogba Jessey, and his son survived the incident which is suspected to be food poisoning.
The statement commiserated with friends and relatives of the bereaved family and urged citizens to be law-abiding and vigilant, adding that relevant agencies have been mobilized to investigate the incident.
The statement reads in part, “While we commiserate with the family and friends of the bereaved, we wish to call for calm and patience to enable relevant medical authorities properly determine the cause of death of the seven persons that reportedly lost their lives.
“Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed authorities of the relevant medical facility where the surviving family members were treated and discharged to ensure a comprehensive autopsy for those who lost their lives.
“As is the standard practice worldwide, only a proper medical autopsy can determine the cause of death and as soon as the report is available we will make same public.
“The government wishes to call on all citizens and residents to maintain vigilance and remain law-abiding as we have mobilized all relevant agencies of government to properly investigate the incident.
“Meanwhile, the Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has fully settled the medical bills of the survivors who are now back home.”
