One dead, five unconscious after mysterious fumes in Benue

A tragic incident on Tuesday morning left one person dead and five others unconscious in Akaajime, Mbakpegh, Ipav, Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State.

Residents said the victims a mother and her children were discovered inside their one-room apartment. Neighbours rushed them to a nearby private hospital after 4-year-old Sunday Surnen was confirmed dead at the scene.

Survivor Mohivinze Terkura, who narrowly escaped the tragedy, recounted that heavy rain delayed her return home.

“I was surprised the door was locked from inside and no one responded. When I forced it open, I found my mother and siblings unconscious,” she said.

Terkura noted a strong chemical smell in the room, adding that the family neither uses a gas cooker nor insecticides, relying instead on mosquito nets.

Another victim, 11-year-old Aondohemba Joseph, who regained consciousness at the hospital, said he woke up unable to move. “I called our mother but she didn’t answer.

Everyone was unconscious until my sister arrived,” he recalled. He added that their mother had woken briefly around 2 a.m. to start cooking but returned to sleep.

Those receiving treatment are Mrs. Mde Joseph, Miss Terkuma Kumawues (12), Miss Chivirter Avalumun (10), Master Teryange Avalumun (7), and Aondohemba Joseph (11).

Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the incident, though residents suspect inhalation of toxic fumes.