Ondo ‌‌⁠‌‍‍⁠⁠‌‍‍‍‍‍‌‍‍‌govt probes death of 24 persons from suspected poisoning

The Ondo State Government has initiated an investigation following the deaths of at least 24 individuals in the Odigbo Local Government Area, believed to be linked to suspected poisoning from locally brewed alcoholic beverages.

The fatalities occurred over the weekend in the communities of Odigbo and Araromi-Obu, prompting a period of mourning among local residents.

Initial reports indicate that the deceased, primarily young adults, succumbed to the effects of consuming these alcoholic substances. Several other individuals are currently receiving treatment in local hospitals, where medical staff are working to stabilize their conditions.

Dr. Banji Ajaka, the state Commissioner for Health, confirmed the situation in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), stating that the government has launched an urgent and comprehensive investigation into the matter.

“We are currently in the field with officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other relevant agencies,” Ajaka said. “Our goal is to conduct a thorough inquiry to determine the cause. Preliminary reports suggest ingestion of a toxic alcoholic substance as a possible factor.”

Ajaka noted the complexities surrounding the death toll, indicating that some victims were buried immediately, while others remain in mortuaries or are still hospitalized. “The incident has notably affected both Odigbo and Araromi-Obu communities,” he added.

The commissioner urged caution against speculation, emphasizing that it would be premature to draw any definitive conclusions about the cause of the deaths before laboratory analyses and further medical investigations are completed.

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