Ondo Herbal Drink Crisis: Death Toll Rises to 49 as 170 People Are Affected

The death toll from a suspected poisoning incident linked to the consumption of an alcoholic herbal substance in Ondo State has risen to 49, while about 170 people have been affected, according to the state Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka.

The health crisis was first reported on September 5 in Odigbo town and Araromi-Obu, both in Odigbo Local Government Area, after residents reportedly consumed a herbal liquid substance. Several people subsequently became seriously ill, with some reportedly losing consciousness and dying.

The situation has now spread to Irele Local Government Area, where eight deaths were reported as of Tuesday night, according to Ajaka. The commissioner said the overall figure of 170 includes people who died as well as those who were admitted for treatment.

The state government had earlier banned the sale and distribution of unverified alcoholic drinks and other substances across Ondo State following the initial deaths. The government said the measure was intended to prevent further casualties while investigations into the substance continued.

The Ondo State Police Command has also arrested Oloruntoba Babatunde, popularly known as “Meko,” over his alleged involvement in the production of substances suspected to be connected to the incident. Fourteen other people were also arrested during enforcement operations over the production, sale and consumption of prohibited alcoholic products.

Police said substances suspected to contain methanol were recovered and sent for forensic examination. Investigators are also examining the source, production, composition and distribution of the substances, while medical and forensic procedures are being carried out on the bodies of those who died.

Ajaka said the state government has deployed medical and health officials to affected communities and is working with other stakeholders to prevent the crisis from spreading to additional local government areas. The precise cause and circumstances surrounding the deaths remain subject to ongoing investigation and laboratory analysis.