Ondo State Herbal and Alcohol Poisoning Deaths Rise to 29

The death toll from suspected poisoning associated with herbal concoctions and alcoholic substances in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State has increased to 29, with 60 suspected cases reported. Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka, the state Commissioner for Health, provided this update on Saturday, noting that three victims are currently hospitalized, while 27 others are under observation.

Most affected individuals are males aged between 16 and 55 years. The affected communities include New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, and Araromi-Obu, with an additional suspected case in Oniparaga.

The Ministry of Health became aware of the situation following reports of sudden deaths in New Town on September 3. Symptoms among the victims included headache, weakness, and altered consciousness, raising suspicion of toxic exposure from alcoholic substances.

Laboratory confirmation of the specific toxic agent is pending, with 36 biological specimens collected for analysis. The state government has enacted an emergency response, including a temporary ban on the production and sale of locally brewed alcoholic beverages.