Ondo State Confirms 29 Deaths from Alcohol Poisoning

The Ondo State Government confirmed that 29 individuals have died from suspected alcohol poisoning in the Odigbo Local Government Area, with 60 additional suspected cases reported. Dr. Banji Ajaka, the Commissioner for Health, announced these figures on September 13, 2026, in Akure.

He indicated that three individuals are hospitalized, while 27 others are under medical observation. The majority of those affected are males aged between 16 and 55, with cases primarily arising from communities such as Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele, and Oniparaga.

Symptoms reported include headache, body pain, weakness, visual disturbances, breathing difficulties, and altered consciousness. Although there is strong epidemiological suspicion of toxic alcoholic substances, laboratory evidence is still pending.

The state has collected 36 blood and urine samples for analysis and imposed a temporary ban on the production and sale of locally brewed alcoholic beverages in the affected area. Residents are urged to avoid unlicensed alcoholic products and report unusual illnesses to health authorities.