One dies, several ill after New Year party

JETHRO IBILEKE/Benin

An end of the year party organized by the Benin office of Nigeria’s Integrated Data Services Limited for its retiring staff has landed several persons in the hospital.

Food poisoning was suspected.

Following the report, the management of the company has launched an investigation into the suspected food poisoning case that landed unspecified number of persons who were served food at the party, while others had running stomach and one person allegedly lost his life.

Investigations revealed that many of those affected were treated at the NNPC staff clinic, Benin.

Manager, Public Administration Department of IDSL, Yemi Dare, who confirmed the incident, said that the medical unit was investigating the matter. He however denied the death of any of those affected by the alleged food poisoning.

“Staff who participated at the occasion and who ate the food, irrespective of the type eaten, reported some reactions, later that day. Some reportedly experienced diarrhea, while some experienced vomiting alongside the stooling. It was obvious from the number of people involved that food poisoning could not be ruled out, though this has not been officially stated to be the case.

“The situation was aptly brought under control through the assistance of NNPC Medical Services, Benin zone. Every staff that had adverse reactions as a result of the food in-take was promptly attended to by our medical services personnel.

“It should be noted, categorically, that not a single death was recorded as a result of the incidence. It should also be noted that the management of IDSL has since commenced a full investigation into the causes of the reactions experienced by staff. Our medical services are conducting investigation into the unfortunate incidence,” Dare said.

It was learnt that a private Catering outfit was hired to provide the food that was served at the event.