Twenty-four people have died in Ondo State following the consumption of locally brewed alcoholic drinks, prompting an investigation by health authorities and a temporary ban on the products in affected communities.
The deaths occurred between September 3 and 7 in Odigbo Local Government Area, with cases reported in Araromi-Obu, Orita New Town and Odigbo communities. Several other residents are receiving treatment in hospitals.
Preliminary findings by the Ondo State Ministry of Health indicate a possible connection between the fatalities and locally produced alcoholic beverages, particularly a drink known as “Monkey Tail,” alongside other herbal and ethanol-based mixtures.
Dr Ayodele Adeji, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, said samples had been collected for laboratory analysis and cautioned against drawing conclusions until investigations are completed.
“Preliminary findings suggest a possible link between the deaths and the consumption of locally brewed alcoholic beverages, particularly a drink known as ‘Monkey Tail’ and other locally prepared herbal and ethanol-based drinks,” he said.
Adeji added that further toxicological tests would determine whether there is a direct relationship between the drinks and the deaths.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, said the government was treating the incident as a public health concern but would not disclose details of any suspected substance until medical and laboratory examinations are concluded.
Residents said some victims died at home, while others reportedly died in their sleep. The traditional ruler of Odigbo, Oba Rufus Akinrinmade, assured community members that authorities were working to establish the cause of the deaths and prevent additional casualties.
As a precaution, the Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area, Taiwo Adegoroye, has imposed a one-month ban on the sale and consumption of locally brewed alcoholic drinks in the area.
Adegoroye said a preliminary verbal autopsy conducted by the local government health team pointed to a possible connection between the deaths and certain locally produced substances. He warned that anyone found selling or distributing the banned drinks during the restriction period would face arrest and prosecution.
Health officials say investigations remain ongoing, with toxicology reports expected to provide clarity on the exact cause of the deaths.
