Tragedy struck the Vwei community in the Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State when approximately 18 cows died after reportedly grazing on a farmland that had recently undergone fumigation. 

Local sources familiar with the incident disclosed to Zagazola Makama that the unfortunate event unfolded around midday on Wednesday, April 30th. 

A herd of cattle, owned by a herder identified as Dan’azumi Haruna, inadvertently wandered onto the treated agricultural land. The immediate consequences of the chemical exposure were devastating. 

According to reports, seven of the affected cows were promptly slaughtered due to the fear of widespread contamination of their meat, posing a potential health risk if consumed. Adding to the livestock losses, eleven other cows succumbed to the toxic effects of the chemicals and died at the scene of the incident.

Furthermore, the local sources indicated that the impact of the fumigant extended beyond those who died or were slaughtered. An additional fifteen cattle from the same herd exhibited symptoms of chemical poisoning. These surviving but affected animals are currently under veterinary care, receiving treatment to mitigate the harmful effects of the chemical exposure and ensure their recovery.

The incident is a reminder of the potential dangers that agricultural chemicals can pose to livestock if proper precautions and preventative measures are not strictly adhered to.

Source: Daily Post

Image Credit: Daily Sabah