Ondo herbal mixture incident: NAFDAC confirms 48 deaths
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reported a tragic incident in Ondo State resulting in the deaths of 48 individuals believed to have consumed contaminated traditional medicine and alcohol mixtures.
Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC’s Director-General, provided details during a press briefing. The fatalities occurred in various communities within the Odigbo Local Government Area, including New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, and Oniparaga.
The situation first came to light in early September 2026 when numerous residents began experiencing severe illness following the consumption of what is suspected to be a herbal concoction. Initial reports indicated the deaths of 31 individuals, with 20 in Odigbo town and 11 in Araromi-Obu.
As investigations progressed, the number of fatalities rose to 48, and 182 people were reported to be in critical condition, according to Adeyeye. Several victims have been admitted to hospitals or are under intensive medical observation.
Adeyeye extended her condolences to the affected families and called for prayers for those who lost their lives. NAFDAC continues to conduct laboratory tests to identify the potentially toxic substances ingested by the victims, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for swift, thorough investigation.
