Ondo Health Commissioner Confirms 49 Deaths from Toxic Drink

The death toll in Ondo from suspected consumption of toxic alcoholic drinks and herbal concoctions known as "Monkey Tail" has increased to 49, up from 38. Dr Banji Ajaka, the Ondo Commissioner for Health, confirmed this on September 16, stating that a total of 170 individuals have been affected, including those hospitalized.

Eight of the new fatalities occurred in Irele Local Government Area, expanding the crisis beyond the initial reports from Odigbo LGA. Response teams have been deployed to Irele and other affected areas to manage cases and trace the source of the toxic substance.

The investigation involves collaboration with NAFDAC, NDLEA, DSS, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Oloruntoba Babatunde, known as "Meko," has been arrested for allegedly producing a herbal liquid linked to the health crisis, along with 14 others for violating a local ban on herbal product sales.

The police are conducting medical and forensic examinations on the deceased, with further updates expected.