The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has linked the recent deaths in Ondo State to high methanol concentration from locally prepared herbal and alcoholic drinks.
In a statement signed by its Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Agency said laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of high concentrations of methanol, a highly toxic substance known to cause blindness, organ failure and death even in small quantities.
The outbreak, first reported in early September 2026 in Odigbo Local Government Area, has so far recorded 182 cases with 48 deaths. NAFDAC said 11 of the 15 samples analysed also tested positive for Cannabis indica.
According to NAFDAC, the affected communities include New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu and Oniparaga, with the incident particularly pronounced in Odigbo Town and Araromi-Obu. Cases have also spread to Irele Local Government Area.
Giving an update on the public health situation as at September 17, 2026, NAFDAC said of the 182 affected persons, 90 were admitted and subsequently discharged, six remain hospitalised, 31 were treated as outpatients, while five persons became totally blind and two partially blind.
Clinical features reported among victims include headache, generalised body weakness and pain, visual disturbances, difficulty in breathing and altered consciousness, with some cases deteriorating rapidly.
The Agency said acute oral toxicity tests conducted on the samples showed critically sick mice and approximately 50 per cent mortality in six out of the 15 samples analysed, indicating significant toxic potential.
NAFDAC said 15 persons have been arrested in connection with the production, sale and distribution of the contaminated concoctions.
