Suspected poisonous grass has killed over 80 cattle in Chafajaule village, Ribasu District, Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State. According to a Daily Trust report on Monday, April 27, 2026, the incident occurred after the animals consumed a harmful grass known in Fulfulde as ngayari (wild sorghum).
Government Confirms Cyanide Poisoning
Confirming the incident, the Director of Veterinary Services in Adamawa State, Dr. Bartholomew Nyalas, stated that the suspected cyanide poisoning may have occurred after the cattle grazed on wild sorghum, which typically sprouts after the first rainfall in the area. He added that such cases usually occur when cattle consume the plant in high concentrations, which can quickly lead to the death of the animals. Nyalas therefore called on members of the public to report any suspected cases of animal disease to the nearest veterinary offices across the state's 21 local government areas for prompt intervention.
Government Action Taken
Also speaking on the incident, the Commissioner for Livestock and Agricultural Development, Sa'idu Idris, said the government had taken immediate action by identifying and destroying the affected cattle to prevent further spread. He assured that the situation is under control with proactive measures taken to safeguard the lives of both animals and humans. "Most of the cows were destroyed on the spot of the incident in Chafajaule, Ribadu of Fufore local government area as we visited the Jimeta abattoir on the same vision," Idris said.
He added that the ministry had already sent samples of the grass and meat to VOM for further investigation. While applauding the prompt action of the local staff of Fufore local council by raising the alarm that led to saving the lives of hundreds of its citizens, the Commissioner also appreciated the staff of the abattoir for their maximum cooperation and understanding.
