More than 30 people have reportedly died, while about 50 others are receiving treatment in hospitals following suspected consumption of contaminated alcoholic drinks in communities
The report indicates that more than 30 people have reportedly died, while about 50 others are receiving treatment in hospitals following suspected consumption of contaminated alcoholic drinks in communities in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
It further notes that the deaths were recorded in Odigbo town, Newtown, Orita and Araromi-Obu, where the incident has sparked concern among residents and prompted authorities to launch investigations into the suspected source of the substance.
The Ondo State Government has, as a precautionary measure, ordered the suspension of the sale and consumption of locally produced alcoholic drinks and other suspected concoctions in the affected communities.
One of the survivors, 32-year-old Shola Adebayo, recounted how he developed serious health complications after consuming a locally made alcoholic drink known as “Monkey Tail.”
Adebayo stated he consumed two shots of the drink after a friend brought it from Ore, but noticed the following day that his eyesight had deteriorated.
“I took Monkey Tail. On Saturday, I discovered I can’t see very well, so I called my sister and I was taken to the hospital. I’m getting better, but I’m praying for my eyes.
“If God saved me, I swear I will never take any drinks again, even beer; I won’t take,” the survivor pleaded.
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However, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, stated authorities had not yet established the precise cause of the deaths.
Ajaka spoke after inspecting health facilities in Araromi-Obu, explaining that initial investigations had excluded viral and bacterial infections as possible causes.
According to the commissioner, information gathered so far indicated that some of the affected persons may have consumed alcoholic drinks mixed with an unidentified substance or concoction.
“We have not confirmed the source of death. Investigations are still ongoing,” the commissioner said.
He stated samples of the suspected drinks had been taken for laboratory analysis, while blood and urine samples were being collected from patients to assist medical experts in determining the cause of the illnesses.
Ajaka also stated that post-mortem examinations would be carried out on some of the deceased as part of efforts to establish what led to the deaths.
