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At least 49 people have died after consuming suspected toxic alcoholic drinks in Nigeria’s southwestern Ondo State, while about 170 people have been affected, according to state health authorities.
The outbreak, initially reported in Odigbo Local Government Area, has spread to neighbouring Irele, where eight additional deaths were recorded.
Ondo State Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka said the victims consumed locally produced alcoholic and herbal beverages.
Authorities suspect the drinks may have contained methanol, a highly toxic form of alcohol that can cause blindness, organ failure and death.
However, investigations and toxicology tests are still under way to establish the exact source and composition of the substance.
The first cases were reported on September 5 in Odigbo and Araromi-Obu after residents consumed a locally brewed herbal alcoholic drink. Some victims reportedly lost consciousness before dying.
Police have arrested 15 people, including a man suspected of producing substances believed to contain methanol.
The state government has also banned the production and sale of unverified locally brewed alcoholic and herbal drinks in affected areas.
Health and security agencies are working to trace the source of the suspected poisonous substance, treat affected people and prevent the outbreak from spreading to other communities.
