Ondo bans unverified alcoholic drinks as 30 die, 50 hospitalised

The Ondo State Government in Nigeria has implemented a ban on the sale and distribution of unverified alcoholic drinks and other substances following a tragic incident where approximately 30 individuals died and 50 others were hospitalized after consuming a local herbal alcoholic mixture known as 'monkey tail' in the Odigbo Local Government Area.

This directive aims to prevent further casualties and safeguard residents from potentially harmful products. Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, announced the measure to control the situation and protect the public. The Ministry of Health has launched an investigation into the substance responsible for the fatalities, with scientific officers deployed in affected communities to identify the substance involved.

The government urges residents to avoid purchasing or consuming alcoholic drinks and other products whose authenticity and regulatory approval cannot be verified, particularly sachet or bottle-packaged items lacking approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Violators of the directive will face prosecution.

Security agencies are ordered to immediately stop the sale and distribution of illegal and unapproved products. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities, emphasizing that protecting lives and maintaining public health are collective responsibilities.