Locally brewed alcohol claims lives of at least 40 people in Nigeria
Police authorities say about 15 people have been arrested over their alleged involvement.
At least 40 individuals have lost their lives in Nigeria due to the consumption of locally brewed alcohol, according to health officials. The dangerous substance responsible for these fatalities is methanol, a chemical known to cause organ failure and death. The tragic incident occurred in Ondo State, located in the southwest region of the country.
The health commissioner in Ondo State, Banji Ajaka, is currently leading investigations into the production of the contaminated local drink. He has stated that several other individuals who consumed the alcohol have been hospitalized and are currently receiving medical treatment. Police authorities report that approximately 15 people have been apprehended in connection with the production process.
The Nigerian Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has expressed concern over the prevalence of locally brewed alcoholic beverages. These drinks, which are often sold in inexpensive sachets, are noted for their high concentration and potential to cause severe health issues. NAFDAC has cautioned that these alcohol products can lead to kidney damage, cancer, and mental disorders among consumers.
The agency has subsequently taken the precautionary step of banning alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets, deeming them particularly dangerous and accessible to children.
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