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Veterinary Council of Nigeria Convenes Emergency Meeting after Sudden Horse Deaths at Jos Polo Club

The Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) expresses deep concern following the sudden deaths of 20 horses at the Jos Polo Club in Plateau State.

Emergency Meeting and Investigation

On learning of this incident, Dr. Aishatu Abubakar, mni, President of the VCN, immediately convened an emergency council board meeting on May 4, 2024. During the meeting, the VCN:

  • Received a preliminary report from Professor P.H. Bamaiyi, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Jos.
  • Directed the Chairman of the Investigation Committee to expedite their investigation and bring any responsible parties to justice.

Preliminary Findings

The preliminary report suggests the incident occurred on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at the Jos Polo Club. A stable of 36 Sudanese horses, valued between 2-3 million naira each, exhibited acute, progressive neurological signs.

The report indicates:

  • Initial deaths of four horses occurred within 48 hours of oral administration of a high dosage of ivermectin.
  • Clinical signs included:
    • Difficulty standing and lying down (lateral recumbency)
    • Lethargy (generalized depression)
    • Impaired coordination (ataxia)
    • Drooping lips and drooling
    • Muscle twitching (fasciculations)
    • Dilated pupils unresponsive to light (mydriasis)
    • Coma
  • These signs worsened over 36 hours following ivermectin administration.

Condemning Quackery and Protecting Animal Health

The VCN strongly condemns all forms of unqualified veterinary practices (quackery). The Council is committed to protecting animal health and welfare in Nigeria. We will take all necessary steps to ensure a thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable.

The VCN urges all horse owners to only seek veterinary care from qualified professionals.


Dr. Femi Kayode

Chairman, ICT & Publicity, VCN, Abuja

For VCN

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