By Sandra Kenneth
The Ondo State Government has confirmed the death of 29 people following a suspected poisoning outbreak linked to the consumption of toxic alcoholic concoctions in Odigbo Local Government Area.
Disclosing the update in Akure, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, revealed that the total number of suspected cases has climbed to 60. Currently, three victims are receiving hospital care, while 27 others remain under close medical observation.
Epidemiological patterns indicate that approximately 95% of those affected are males aged between 16 and 55. The cluster of cases is concentrated across several communities, including Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele, and Oniparaga. Affected individuals reported symptoms such as severe headache, body pain, sudden weakness, visual impairment, breathing difficulties, and altered consciousness, with many experiencing rapid physical deterioration.
Although definitive laboratory findings are pending, authorities suspect exposure to a contaminated alcoholic substance.
“The pattern of illness and reported history of exposure have raised strong epidemiological suspicion of exposure to a probable toxic alcoholic substance,” Dr. Ajaka stated. “However, we are yet to have laboratory evidence of the cause of the deaths.”
To investigate the outbreak, health officials have collected 36 blood and urine samples, alongside samples of the suspected herbal concoctions, for toxicological analysis. Multi-agency investigations involving security and regulatory bodies are underway, with several suspects already taken into custody.
In response to the crisis, the Ondo State Government has placed an immediate, temporary ban on the production and sale of locally brewed alcohol and herbal alcoholic beverages across Odigbo LGA. Residents are strongly advised to avoid unlicensed liquor and to seek urgent medical attention if they experience blurred vision, breathing distress, confusion, or sudden weakness after consuming alcohol.
