The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun state has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to suspend the free school feeding program following an incident where 18 pupils of St. James Primary School in Osogbo were allegedly poisoned by their meal.
The pupils reportedly fell ill after eating their O-Meal diet on Monday and were rushed to the hospital for treatment. They were later discharged after receiving medical attention.
Reacting to the incident, the APC Chairman, Mr. Sooko Lawal, described it as an “embarrassment” and a reflection of the “unpreparedness” of the government. He blamed the situation on the poor working conditions and inadequate pay of the food vendors.
Lawal further called on stakeholders to condemn the “laissez-faire approach to governance” exhibited by the government.
Meanwhile, the Osun State government has ordered a full investigation into the alleged food poisoning incident. The affected cooks and program planners have been summoned to a meeting. Additionally, the government has directed the enforcement of food safety standards and an audit of the O-Meal program structure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Governor Adeleke has also ordered the payment of all medical bills for the affected students.
The Chairman of the Local Government Education Authority, Mr. Nathaniel Ojetola, confirmed that 18 students were treated and discharged from the hospital. He further noted that only 103 students out of the school’s total population of 200 participate in the O-Meal program.
A government delegation is currently visiting the families of the affected students.
This incident has raised concerns about the safety and quality of the food served under the O-Meal program. The government’s response and investigation into the matter will be crucial in ensuring the program’s future success.