Ondo State Health Crisis: 49 Dead from Poisonous Drink

The death toll from a poisonous drink in Ondo State has escalated to 49, following the consumption of a toxic substance by residents of Araromi-Obu and Odigbo communities in Odigbo Local Government Area. Initially, the Chairman of Odigbo Local Government, Taiwo Adegoroye, reported 30 deaths, with 14 in Araromi-Obu and 16 in Odigbo.

However, the situation worsened, prompting the Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, to announce that the health crisis has now affected Irele Local Government Area, where 19 additional deaths have been recorded. The total number of affected individuals, including those hospitalized, has reached approximately 170.

The consumption of ethanol is identified as the cause of the health emergency. The Ondo State Police Command has arrested Oloruntoba Babatunde, suspected of producing the herbal liquid linked to the fatalities, along with 14 others for violating a local ban on herbal product sales.

Investigations are ongoing, and medical teams are deployed to manage the crisis.