Strange poisonous grass claims over 80 razing cattles in Adamawa

Strange poisonous grass claims over 80 razing cattles in Adamawa.

By Umar Dankano, Yola.

A strange poisonous grass has claimed the lives of over eighty (80) razing cattle after consumption in Chafajaule village in Ribadu district of Fufore local government area in Adamawa state.

The incident, which reportedly occurred after the animals consumed the harmful grass called ngayari in fulfulde (wild sorghum)has caused significant concern among livestock owners in the area, given the economic impact on affected households.

Confirming the development, the Director Veterinary Services, Adamawa State Dr. Bartholomew Nyalas explained that the suspected cyanide poisoning could also have resulted after cattle grazed in a field with wild sorghum who sprout out after first rain fall in the area.

Nyalas added that,such cases mostly occured due to high concentration of the plant consumed by the cattle which can easily terminate the live of animals whenever consumed

The DVS therefore called on Members of the General Public to always report any suspected case of animal disease to it’s nearest offices across the twenty local government areas for prompt measures to be taken by the authority.

Also speaking on the matter, the Commi ssioner of Ministry of Livestock and Agricultural Development,Sai’du Idris said that the government has since taken immediate action by identifying and destroying effected cows with a view to stop further spreading.

Idris assured that, the situation is under control with the proactive decision taken in order to safeguard the lives of both other animals and most importantly that of human beings

“Most of the Cows were destroyed on the spot of the incident in Chafajaule, Ribadu of Fufore local government area as we visited the Jimeta abbatoir on same vision”. Idris maintained.

He also said already the ministry had already sent samples of both the grass and meat to the VOM for further investigation.

While applauding the prompt action of the local staff of Fufore local council by raising alarm that led to saving lives of hundreds of it’s citizens should they eat that meat of affected cattle, the Commissioner also appreciated the staff of the Abbatoir for their maximum cooperation and understanding.

Our Correspondent reported that the
Fufore Emirate Council and the Ribadu District, have paid a sympathy visit to the people of Chafajaule following the tragic incident with the delegation led by the
Secretary of the Fufore Emirate, Dr. Saad Usman.

During the visit, the delegation expressed sympathy to the affected community and assured them of support in addressing the situation suspected to be a case of cyanide or grass poisoning.