The community of Ogidi in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State is in deep mourning following a devastating incident on Saturday, May 3, 2025, where five siblings tragically died from suspected food poisoning. Their mother is currently fighting for her life in a hospital.

Pa Robinson Aghalu, the 79-year-old father and retired soldier, recounted the horrific events, stating that the tragedy unfolded shortly after his children consumed a meal prepared by their mother. He explained that his children began to suffer from severe stomach aches, vomiting, and other alarming symptoms. Despite being rushed to various medical facilities in the area, including a nearby maternity clinic, Iyienu Mission Hospital, and Crown Hospital, five of his six children succumbed to the illness.

The children’s mother also fell ill with similar symptoms and is currently hospitalized. A medical professional attending to her has indicated that food poisoning is the likely cause of the sickness.

The couple’s only child who survived was away at the time of the incident, staying with a relative for studies.

The grieving family is now facing the daunting challenge of covering medical and funeral expenses and is in urgent need of support.

Confirming the tragedy, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the police have taken over the scene and collected food samples for forensic analysis. He added that investigators are also gathering information from the community to aid their inquiries. The bodies of the deceased children have been taken to a morgue.