Ondo State Bans Unverified Alcoholic Drinks After Deaths

The Ondo State Government has enacted a ban on the sale and distribution of unverified alcoholic drinks and substances across the state after a tragic incident in the Odigbo Local Government Area, where approximately 30 people died from consuming a local herbal alcoholic mixture known as ‘monkey tail’. Additionally, around 50 individuals were hospitalized due to the same substance.

Idowu Ajanaku, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, announced the directive aimed at protecting residents from harmful products. The ban includes all alcoholic drinks and substances sold in sachets or bottles without verified sources or regulatory status.

The Ministry of Health has initiated investigations into the substance responsible for the fatalities, deploying scientific officers to affected communities. Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa's administration is committed to ensuring public safety and preventing further casualties.

The government has warned that violators of the ban will face prosecution and has instructed security agencies to enforce the directive.