Four die, 14 hospitalised after consuming suspected poisonous herbal mixture in Benue

Four individuals have tragically died and 14 others have been hospitalized after consuming a controversial herbal mixture in Benue State, Nigeria. The herbal products were allegedly sold to members of the Igede community by three men - Alhaji Mai Magamani, Mohamed, and Musa Kolo - during a market day in Oju township. Eyewitnesses reported that the incident came to light on Monday, November 2, 2026, when several individuals who had ingested the herbal concoction started experiencing similar health issues.

The first victim reportedly passed away on Tuesday morning, followed by another person early on Wednesday. Additional fatalities occurred on November 4, increasing the death count to four. At least 14 others are receiving medical treatment, with some in critical condition. The three suspected herbal medicine sellers were arrested by the Igede Youth Council, along with the Oju Local Government Township Youth leadership, and subsequently handed over to the police.

The incident has prompted calls for a thorough investigation by the Igede Youth Council's President, Comrade John-Frank Ozzidi, who urged the Benue State Government to ensure those responsible face prosecution. Ozzidi commended community members for refraining from taking matters into their own hands and appealed to local political representatives to follow up on the investigation.

The Oju Local Government Council Chairman, Mr. Jackson Ominyi, confirmed the tragic incident but could not immediately disclose the total number of fatalities. He stated that three deaths were reported previously, with other victims receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Oju. The police have transferred the case to the Benue State Police Command for further investigation, but no comments were available from the Police Public Relations Officer at the time of reporting.