At least 24 people have died in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State after reportedly consuming a herbal liquid substance.
The deaths occurred in Odigbo town and Araromi-Obu, with eight fatalities reported in Araromi-Obu and 16 in Odigbo. Several others who consumed the substance are currently receiving treatment in hospitals.
The Ondo State Government has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the deaths.
Commissioner for Health Dr. Banji Ajaka confirmed the incident, saying health officials were conducting assessments in the affected communities.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ayodele Adeji, said preliminary findings suggested possible methanol contamination but stressed that laboratory tests were still ongoing.
Odigbo Local Government Chairman, Taiwo Adegoroye, said a preliminary assessment indicated a possible link between the deaths and the substances consumed, but the cause had not been conclusively established.
As a precaution, the council has banned the sale and consumption of locally brewed alcoholic drinks in the area pending the outcome of the investigation.
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