Suspected poisonous grass kills over 80 cattle in Adamawa

Suspected poisonous grass has killed over 80 cattle in Chafajaule village, Ribadu District of Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State.

The incident, which reportedly occurred after the animals consumed a harmful grass known in Fulfulde as ngayari (wild sorghum), has raised serious concern among livestock owners due to the economic losses suffered by affected households.

Confirming the incident, the Director of Veterinary Services in Adamawa State, Dr Bartholomew Nyalas, said the suspected cyanide poisoning may have occurred after the cattle grazed on wild sorghum, which typically sprouts after the first rainfall in the area.

Nyalas added that such cases usually occur when cattle consume the plant in high concentrations, which can quickly lead to the death of the animals.

Nyalas therefore called on members of the public to report any suspected cases of animal disease to the nearest veterinary offices across the state’s 21 local government areas for prompt intervention.

Also speaking on the incident, the Commissioner for Livestock and Agricultural Development, Sa’idu Idris, said the government had taken immediate action by identifying and destroying the affected cattle to prevent further spread.

Idris assured that the situation is under control with proactive measures taken to safeguard the lives of both animals and humans.

“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 abattoir on the same vision,” Idris said.

He added that the ministry had already sent samples of the grass and meat to 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 its citizens, the Commissioner also appreciated the staff of the abattoir for their maximum cooperation and understanding.

Our correspondent reports that the Fufore Emirate Council and the Ribadu District paid a sympathy visit to the people of Chafajaule following the tragic incident, with a 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 incident, which is suspected to be linked to cyanide or grass poisoning.(daily trust)