Ondo Toxic Alcohol Outbreak Death Toll Rises To 49 As Cases Reach 170

Ondo Toxic Alcohol Outbreak Death Toll Rises to 49 as Cases Reach 170 The death toll from the consumption of a suspected poisonous alcoholic beverage in parts of Ondo State has risen to 49, while the number of affected people has increased to about 170, according to state health authorities. The outbreak, which was initially reported in communities within Odigbo Local Government Area, has now spread to neighbouring Irele Local Government Area, where additional deaths have been recorded. Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, said the latest cases were recorded in Irele, where the situation has become a major concern for health authorities. Ajaka said medical and health teams had been deployed to the affected communities to provide emergency care and monitor the situation. The commissioner said the total number affected includes people who have been admitted for treatment as well as those who have died. The health emergency is being investigated as suspected poisoning linked to a locally produced alcoholic or herbal drink. Reports indicate that authorities are investigating the possible presence of methanol, a highly toxic form of alcohol that can cause serious health complications, including blindness, organ failure and death. The precise composition and source of the suspected contaminated drink remain subject to investigation. The Ondo State Police Command has also begun investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Police have arrested several people in connection with the incident, including a man suspected of producing a herbal liquid believed to be linked to the outbreak. Authorities are investigating the production and distribution of the substance as part of efforts to determine how the suspected contamination occurred. The state government has continued to mobilise medical personnel and other relevant agencies as the outbreak spreads. Authorities are working to identify affected people, provide treatment and prevent further consumption of the suspected poisonous beverage. The rapid increase in fatalities has also heightened concerns over the risks associated with unregulated alcoholic and herbal products, particularly in communities where such drinks are widely available. With cases now reported in more than one local government area, health authorities are continuing surveillance and public-health interventions. Residents have been urged to exercise caution and avoid consuming unidentified or unregulated alcoholic substances while investigations into the outbreak continue. The Ondo State Government is expected to provide further updates as health officials and law-enforcement agencies work to establish the source of the suspected poisoning and contain the outbreak.