Nigeria Alcohol Tragedy: Nearly 50 Die After Consuming Suspected Methanol-Laced Local Brew

At least 48 individuals have perished and approximately 100 others are receiving medical care in southern Nigeria after ingesting a locally brewed alcoholic beverage believed to contain methanol, according to officials. Ondo state's health commissioner, Banji Ajaka, reported that cases emerged in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas, with 182 people potentially affected.

A 32-year-old man, Sola Adebayo, recounted losing his vision following the consumption of the beverage, stating, "I took like two shots and I went out on Friday. On Saturday, I noticed that I could not see."

Methanol, a highly toxic form of alcohol, is responsible for severe health consequences. The effects of consuming the drink can rapidly deteriorate vital organs and brain function depending on the quantity ingested, warned Ajaka. Nigeria's police spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that 15 people were apprehended in connection with the incident, including one allegedly involved in methanol production, cooperating with authorities.

Residents speculated that a well-known herbal alcoholic drink, "Monkey Tail," which has high alcohol content, may have been contaminated with methanol, leading to the tragic fatalities. A vendor in Odigbo, speaking anonymously due to fear of arrest, mentioned two versions of Monkey Tail: a legitimate, safe version and an unsafe alternative.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has imposed a nationwide ban on alcohol sold in sachets and small plastic containers, due to their accessibility to children and young people.