Over 80 Cows Die in Adamawa After Suspected Cyanide Poisoning from Wild Sorghum

A sudden livestock tragedy has hit Adamawa State after more than 80 cows reportedly died in a single incident linked to poisonous grazing in Fufore Local Government Area.

The deaths occurred in Chafajaule village, Ribadu District, where herders discovered their cattle collapsing after feeding on what experts believe to be toxic vegetation.

Confirming the incident, Dr Bartholomew Nyalas, Director of Veterinary Services in the state, said preliminary findings point to cyanide poisoning as the likely cause.

He explained that the toxic effect is often associated with wild sorghum, a plant that typically sprouts after the first rainfall in the region and can be dangerous when consumed in large quantities.

According to him, the plant releases harmful compounds that become lethal to animals when ingested in high concentration, leading to rapid fatalities among grazing cattle.

“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 in the same division,” he said.

The incident has raised concerns among livestock owners, particularly as the rainy season begins — a period known for increased growth of wild grasses that may pose risks to grazing animals.

Authorities are expected to intensify awareness efforts among herders to help prevent similar losses, especially in areas where wild sorghum is common.