The Borno State Government has warned residents against buying vegetables from areas affected by flood, saying the edibles have been contanmainated with dead bodies, sewage and other harmful chemicals.
The Ministry of Information and Internal Security in a statement posted on its verified Facebook page on Tuesday urged the people to abide by the warning to head off diseases and other health crises.
“Due to the recent flood disaster, vegetables from flooded areas are seriously contaminated with harmful substances, including sewage, dead bodies, chemicals, and bacteria.
“Consuming these contaminated vegetables can lead to serious health risks, including waterborne diseases, food poisoning, and other health complications.
“To protect your health and safety, we urge you to avoid buying vegetables from flooded areas; only purchase vegetables from trusted sources and reputable markets; ensure that all vegetables are properly washed and cleaned before consumption,” the statement read.
The ministry urged the residents to prioritize their health and safety “during this challenging time.”
Nearly 500,000 people have been displaced and more than 1 million affected by flood that recently submerged several parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The flood, described as the worst in the state in 30 years, resulted from the collapse of Alu dam due to high rainfalls. The disaster also killed about 80% of animals at a zoo in the city while others escaped.