NAFDAC Reports 48 Deaths from Toxic Alcohol in Ondo

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) confirmed that 48 individuals have died due to a locally prepared alcoholic and herbal concoction linked to a mass poisoning outbreak in Ondo State. As of September 17, 2026, there were 182 reported cases, primarily affecting communities in Odigbo Local Government Area, including New Town, Odole, Okele, Oria Otigbo, Araromi-Obu, and Oniparaga.

The highest case numbers were in Odigbo Town and Araromi-Obu. NAFDAC's investigation indicated a high fatality rate, with 90 individuals hospitalized and 31 treated as outpatients; six remain hospitalized.

Preliminary lab tests showed dangerous levels of toxic substances in the concoctions, with acute oral toxicity tests indicating approximately 50% mortality in laboratory mice. NAFDAC has arrested 15 individuals connected to the production and distribution of these beverages and is conducting ongoing surveillance and risk-control measures.

The outbreak has also spread to parts of Ile-Oluji Local Government Area.