Nigeria: Ondo Poisonous Drink - Death Toll Rises to 49

In Ondo State, the death toll from a suspected poisonous herbal drink has climbed to 49, with approximately 170 individuals affected by the health crisis. The outbreak initially occurred in Araromi-Obu and Odigbo communities within Odigbo Local Government Area, but has since expanded to Irele Local Government Area, where eight fatalities have been recorded.

Dr Banji Ajaka, the state Commissioner for Health, confirmed this development on Wednesday, stating that the number of affected persons had risen to about 170, including those receiving treatment and those who had succumbed to the illness. He highlighted the severity of the situation in Irele, where multiple deaths had been reported.

The Commissioner attributed the crisis to the consumption of ethanol by the victims, and stated that medical teams had been dispatched to affected communities. The state government has intensified efforts to contain the crisis and prevent its spread to other local government areas. Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has apprehended Oloruntoba Babatunde, known as "Meko", in connection with the production of a herbal liquid substance that is suspected to be linked to the deaths.

The police, along with 14 other individuals, were also arrested for allegedly breaching a local government ban on the sale of herbal products. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths has been initiated by the police, who are currently seeking information from Babatunde, who is suspected of producing substances that may contain methanol.

The police assured that the situation had been brought under control following coordinated security, medical, and investigative interventions. The remains of the deceased are undergoing necessary medical and forensic procedures as the investigation continues, with further updates to be provided as the investigation progresses.