Family Announces Burial for Mother and Five Children Who Died of Suspected Food Poisoning in Anambra

October 8, 2025: The grief-stricken family of a 79-year-old retired soldier, Pa Robinson Aghalu, has announced the burial arrangements for his wife and five children who tragically died of suspected food poisoning in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

According to the family’s announcement, the burial will take place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at their hometown, Uru-Owelle, Nkwelle Ogidi.

The devastating incident, which occurred in May 2025, claimed the lives of five of Aghalu’s six children identified as Ebube, Uchenna, Abuchi, Ikechukwu, and Dumebi between May 4 and May 7. Their mother, Mrs. Adaobi Aghalu, who initially survived and was receiving treatment, passed away a day later on May 8.

Speaking with reporters, Pa Aghalu recounted the heartbreaking sequence of events that began shortly after his wife prepared a family meal.

“It all started when the children began to complain of stomach pain and vomiting shortly after eating,” he said. “We rushed them to different hospitals, but despite all efforts, one after another, they passed away.”

The victims were reportedly taken to several medical facilities, including a nearby maternity clinic, Iyienu Mission Hospital, and Crown Hospital, but all efforts to save their lives proved futile.

A doctor who managed Mrs. Adaobi Aghalu’s case before her death confirmed that food poisoning was the likely cause of the illness.

In a small twist of fate, the couple’s only surviving child was spared from the tragedy, as he was away from home, reportedly staying with a relative for his studies when the incident occurred.

Pa Aghalu, a retired military officer known for his disciplined and humble life, is now left to mourn his wife and five children an unimaginable loss that has plunged the community into deep sorrow.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that the command had taken over the case for a thorough investigation.

“The command is aware of this development and has taken over the crime scene. Samples of the suspected food have been collected for forensic analysis, and operatives are engaging the neighbourhood for vital information that could aid the investigation,” Ikenga stated.

Authorities have yet to release the results of the forensic examination, but police sources say foul play has not been ruled out as investigations continue.

The Ogidi community has been thrown into mourning, with residents expressing shock over the sudden and tragic deaths. Many described the Aghalu family as peaceful, well-respected, and deeply involved in community activities.

Church groups and neighbours have been visiting Pa Aghalu to offer condolences and emotional support as the family prepares for the joint burial ceremony.