70 Cattle Destroyed in Adamawa Over Suspected Grass Poisoning

The Adamawa State Government has destroyed more than 70 cows at the Jimeta modern Abattoir following a suspected case of grass poisoning, in an effort to ensure and protect public health and livestock.

Salihu Idris, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Livestock and Agricultural Development, made the disclosure while speaking to journalists during an inspection at the Jimeta abattoir.

He explained that most of the affected cattle were identified and destroyed at the scene of the incident in Chambe Jouli, Ribadu area of Fufore Local Government Area.

According to him, the government acted proactively to prevent the contaminated meat from entering the food chain, stressing that the decision was necessary to safeguard both animal and human lives.

He commended the prompt response of ministry staff, particularly those in Fufore, as well as personnel across all 21 local government areas of the state.

Idris reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and maintaining healthy livestock across Adamawa.

“The action taken has potentially saved hundreds of lives that could have been at risk if the meat had been consumed,” he said, while also appreciating the cooperation of officials at the Jimeta Abattoir.

In his remarks, Mohammed Amin Suleiman, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, said surveillance has been intensified across all 21 local government areas.

Noting that veterinary officers and other staff have been placed on alert to closely monitor livestock and prevent similar incidents.

He added that samples of the suspected contaminated grass and soil have been sent to the Veterinary Research Institute in Vom for further analysis.

In his words, Bartholomew Nyalas explained that the suspected poisoning may have occurred after cattle grazed on wild sorghum that sprouted following the first rainfall. He noted that such plants can contain high levels of cyanide when consumed in large quantities.

Nyalas urged members of the public to promptly report any suspected cases of animal disease to the nearest veterinary office, emphasising the importance of early detection and response in preventing outbreaks.

The state government has assured residents of its continued vigilance in protecting public health and strengthening livestock management practices.