ABUJA: At least 48 people have died in Nigeria’s southern Ondo State after consuming locally prepared alcoholic and herbal drinks found to contain high concentrations of methanol, according to the country’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The agency said 182 cases had been recorded in the affected areas, with victims reported in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas. Six people remained hospitalised in the latest update, while others had been discharged or treated as outpatients.
NAFDAC Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye said laboratory analysis of samples collected from affected communities confirmed high concentrations of methanol, a highly toxic substance that can cause severe poisoning, blindness, organ failure and death.
The agency said five victims had become totally blind and two others partially blind. Reported symptoms included headaches, general weakness and pain, visual disturbances, breathing difficulties and altered consciousness.
15 Arrested as Investigation Continues
Police have arrested 15 people in connection with the suspected production, sale and distribution of the implicated drinks.
Authorities said one of those arrested was allegedly involved in producing substances suspected to contain methanol and was assisting investigators. The investigation remains ongoing.
The outbreak was initially reported in parts of Odigbo, including Odigbo town and Araromi-Obu, before cases were also identified in Irele. NAFDAC said affected communities included New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu and Oniparaga.
Locals and earlier reports have linked the incident to a high-alcohol herbal concoction commonly known as “Monkey Tail,” although authorities are continuing to investigate the precise source and composition of the contaminated drinks.
Methanol Contamination Confirmed
NAFDAC said 15 samples of the suspected drinks underwent laboratory testing. Eleven of the samples also tested positive for Cannabis indica, while gas chromatography confirmed high concentrations of methanol.
The agency said further testing is underway to determine the exact methanol concentrations and identify any additional toxic substances.
Methanol is highly toxic when ingested. Severe poisoning can affect the nervous system and vision and may lead to permanent blindness, organ damage or death.
Authorities have warned people against consuming unlicensed, unregistered or locally prepared alcoholic and herbal concoctions whose ingredients and production methods cannot be verified.
The incident has highlighted the public-health risks associated with unregulated locally produced alcoholic drinks, particularly in communities where such products are widely available.