More than 80 cows have died in Chafajaule village, Ribadu District of Fufore Local Government Area in Adamawa State, after grazing on poisonous wild sorghum believed to contain cyanide. The tragic incident, confirmed by Dr. Bartholomew Nyalas, Director of Veterinary Services in Adamawa State, occurred following the first rainfall of the season, which triggered the growth of the toxic plant. The cows, mostly local breeds, succumbed to poisoning after consuming large quantities of the wild sorghum, which is known to be harmful to livestock when ingested in high amounts.
Dr. Nyalas spoke to reporters on Monday, confirming the deaths and expressing concern over the recurring nature of such incidents in the region. He explained that wild sorghum typically emerges after the initial rains and can be highly dangerous to cattle if not properly managed. “When animals consume the plant in high concentrations, it can lead to their death,” he said, emphasizing the need for farmers to be vigilant during the rainy season.
The veterinary official added that most of the affected cows were destroyed at the scene of the incident in Chafajaule. He also noted that the team visited the Jimeta abattoir in the same division to assess the situation and collect samples for further analysis. This step is crucial to confirm the exact cause of death and to prevent future outbreaks in the area.
Farmers in the region have been advised to monitor their herds closely and avoid grazing in areas where wild sorghum is known to grow. Dr. Nyalas urged livestock owners to educate themselves on the dangers of seasonal poisonous plants and to report any unusual animal deaths immediately. The state government is also considering awareness campaigns to reduce livestock losses due to toxic vegetation.
The incident has raised alarm among local farmers, who rely heavily on cattle for income and food security. The loss of over 80 cows represents a significant economic blow to the community, especially during a time when agricultural activities are ramping up. Authorities are working to provide support and guidance to affected families and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the rainy season continues, veterinary officials remain on high alert, monitoring livestock health across Adamawa State. The case underscores the importance of timely intervention and community education in safeguarding Nigeria’s livestock industry. With proper precautions and increased awareness, future outbreaks of cyanide poisoning in cattle can be prevented.
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