At least 48 people have died and 182 others are critically ill following the consumption of locally prepared alcoholic and herbal drinks in parts of Ondo State, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed.
The affected communities include New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu and Oniparaga in Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
According to NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the incident was first reported in early September after several residents suddenly fell ill and died after consuming the suspected concoctions.
NAFDAC said 90 affected persons were treated and discharged, while six remained hospitalised and 31 were receiving treatment as outpatients. Five people reportedly became totally blind, while two others suffered partial blindness.
The agency said preliminary laboratory tests found high concentrations of methanol in the suspected drinks. Methanol is highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning, blindness, organ failure and death.
NAFDAC also said 15 people had been arrested in connection with the suspected production, sale and distribution of the drinks.
The agency explained that further laboratory tests are ongoing to determine the exact concentration of methanol and identify other possible toxic substances.
NAFDAC said the figures remained subject to verification as investigations and surveillance activities continue.
