Methanol Suspected in Ondo Alcohol Outbreak as Death Toll Reaches 48

At least 48 people have died and about 100 others are receiving medical treatment in Ondo State after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic drink suspected to have been contaminated with methanol.

The cases were reported in the Odigbo and Irele Local Government Areas of the state, with health officials estimating that 182 people may have been affected by the suspected poisoning.

Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka, said victims developed severe symptoms after consuming the drink, with some experiencing loss of vision and serious organ complications.

The incident has raised concern over the dangers associated with poorly regulated locally produced alcoholic beverages, particularly in rural communities where such drinks are often cheaper and more accessible.

Some residents have identified a popular high-alcohol herbal concoction known locally as “Monkey Tail” as the suspected drink involved in the outbreak. However, investigations are still ongoing to establish exactly how the suspected methanol contamination occurred.

Methanol is a highly toxic form of alcohol that can cause serious poisoning when consumed. Severe exposure can result in blindness, organ failure, brain damage and death.

The police have arrested 15 people in connection with the incident. Authorities said one of those arrested is suspected of being involved in the production of substances believed to contain methanol and is assisting investigators.

Health authorities are continuing to monitor affected communities and treat people who consumed the suspected drink.

The outbreak has also renewed concerns over the production and sale of unregulated alcoholic beverages in Nigeria. Small-scale and locally produced drinks are widely consumed in some communities, particularly where commercial alcoholic products are less affordable or readily available.

The incident comes as Nigeria’s food and drug regulator continues enforcement of a nationwide restriction on alcoholic drinks sold in sachets and small plastic containers. The measure is intended partly to reduce access to such products among young people.

Authorities are expected to continue testing suspected products and tracing their sources as investigations proceed.

The rising death toll has also highlighted the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after consuming an alcoholic product suspected to be contaminated, particularly when symptoms such as blurred vision, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, confusion or loss of consciousness occur.