Ondo bans unverified alcoholic drinks as 30 die, 50 hospitalised
The Ondo State Government has enacted a ban on the sale and distribution of unverified alcoholic beverages and substances following a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of approximately 30 individuals who consumed a local herbal alcoholic drink known as “monkey tail.”
The fatalities occurred in the Odigbo Local Government Area, with about 50 additional individuals requiring hospitalization. In response, state officials swiftly moved to implement measures aimed at preventing further harm to residents.
Idowu Ajanaku, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, announced the ban in a statement, emphasizing that the action was taken to address the incident and safeguard public health. The directive prohibits the sale of alcoholic drinks and other substances in any form—whether in sachets or bottles—if their source, contents, or regulatory status cannot be verified.
Ajanaku noted that the Ministry of Health has begun investigations into the substance linked to the deaths. Scientific personnel have been dispatched to the affected communities to assess the situation.
“The government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is committed to investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident and ensuring the safety of our citizens,” the statement indicated.
Residents have been warned against purchasing or consuming alcoholic products without verified authenticity or regulatory approval, particularly those packaged in sachets or bottles lacking endorsement from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Additionally, traders and distributors are urged to cease the sale of any products whose source or contents remain unverified. The government has stated that those who violate the directive will face legal repercussions.
Security agencies throughout Ondo State have also been directed to take immediate action against the sale and distribution of unauthorized products. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious products, vendors, or distribution activities to the relevant authorities.
“Protecting lives and promoting public health is a shared responsibility,” the government underlined, calling for community cooperation with health officials and law enforcement as investigations progress.
