At least 49 people have died and 182 others have been hospitalised following suspected alcohol poisoning in Nigeria’s southwestern Ondo state, health authorities said on Friday.
The health emergency was first reported on September 5, when authorities said 29 people had died within a week of consuming locally produced alcohol. Ondo Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka said the death toll had risen to 49 by Friday.
Authorities suspect the deaths were caused by methanol poisoning linked to a locally brewed gin known as “Monkey Tail,” highlighting the risks associated with unregulated alcoholic drinks that are widely consumed in some parts of Nigeria because of their low cost and easy availability.
Ajaka said the outbreak was traced to two traditional ceremonies in Odigbo district, where guests consumed a locally produced alcoholic drink.
“The pattern of illness and reported history of exposure have raised strong epidemiological suspicion of exposure to a probable toxic alcoholic substance. However, we are yet to have laboratory evidence,” Ajaka said in a statement.
Victims reported symptoms including headaches, body pain, breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness and blindness.
Ajaka said the effects could develop rapidly after consumption, potentially causing severe damage to the kidneys, eyes and brain.
Police said a suspect had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Authorities have not yet confirmed through laboratory testing whether methanol was responsible for the deaths.
