A heart-wrenching tragedy has continued to cast a shadow over Ogidi in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, as 79-year-old retired soldier, Pa Robinson Aghalu, announced the burial arrangements for his wife and five children who died from suspected food poisoning.
Newsonspot reports that the sad incident occurred in May 2025, claiming the lives of the Aghalu family members within just a few days. The children – Ebube, Uchenna, Abuchi, Ikechukwu, and Dumebi – died between May 4 and 7, while their mother, Mrs. Adaobi Aghalu, who initially survived, passed away on May 8, 2025.
According to Pa Aghalu, the tragedy began shortly after the children ate a meal prepared by their mother. He recounted that they began experiencing severe stomach pain, vomiting, and other symptoms before being rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
“Despite all efforts to save them, five of the six children died at various hospitals, including a nearby maternity clinic, Iyienu Mission Hospital, and Crown Hospital,” he lamented.
Medical personnel who treated the mother before her passing confirmed that food poisoning was the likely cause of the illness.
The only surviving child of the family was said to have escaped the tragedy because he was away with a relative at the time.
In a statement, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident and disclosed that food samples had been collected for forensic analysis.
“The command is aware of this development and has taken over the crime scene. Samples of the food have been taken for forensic assessment, and operatives are engaging the neighbourhood to gather vital information for investigation,” Ikenga stated.
The late Mrs. Adaobi Aghalu and her five children will be laid to rest on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in Uru-Owelle, Nkwelle Ogidi.
May their souls rest in peace.
