The Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Ali Inname, announced the deaths of 24 family members after consuming deadly food on Tuesday.

According to the commissioner, the event happened on Monday in Danzanke village, Bargaja ward, Isa Local Government Area, Sokoto State.

He said that the incident was a result of the family using a fertilizer chemical called “Gishirin Lalle” in Hausa in their cooking mistaking it for cooking salt.

The commissioner said, “Regrettably, the entire family who ate the meal lost their lives, except two female members, who merely tasted the food and are currently responding to treatment, with very good chances of survival.

“Attempts to save the lives of all the affected people by providing the needed medical care proved abortive”.

The commissioner advised the public to take note of this incident and keep harmful chemicals out of reach.

He also urged individuals to be careful in order to avoid a repetition in their households.

He stated that it was critical for the people to understand that the incident could have been avoided and that it was not communicable, since it was exceedingly lethal, even with the best medical care provided to sufferers.

He urged people to keep food products away from other agricultural and cosmetic materials in storage and to thoroughly inspect all ingredients and foodstuff before using them.

The commissioner emphasized the importance of securing food stockpiles to keep flies out, as well as cooking food and water sources.

He urged people to keep their surroundings clean, decrease flies and other vectors, and wash their hands with soap and water regularly.

“Wells should have covers to prevent contamination from faces of surface water after a rainfall, the water should be boiled before use, especially in rural areas”, he advised.

“Report to a health facility or isolation camp in your area early when you observe any unusual symptoms or unusual condition.”