At least 49 people have died and 182 others have been hospitalised following suspected alcohol poisoning in Nigeria’s southwestern Ondo State, according to the state’s health commissioner.
The health emergency was first reported on September 5, when authorities said 29 people had died within the first week after consuming the suspected contaminated alcohol. By Friday, the death toll had risen to 49, Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka said.
Authorities suspect the deaths may have been caused by methanol poisoning from a locally brewed gin popularly known as “Monkey Tail.”
The incident has highlighted the risks associated with unregulated alcoholic drinks, which remain widely consumed in parts of Nigeria because they are inexpensive and readily available.
Ajaka said the outbreak was traced to two traditional ceremonies in the Odigbo district, where guests consumed a locally produced alcoholic drink.
Severe symptoms
“The pattern of illness and reported history of exposure have raised strong epidemiological suspicion of exposure to a probable toxic alcoholic substance. However, we are yet to have laboratory evidence,” Ajaka said in a statement.
Victims reportedly experienced a range of severe symptoms, including headaches, body pain, breathing difficulties, altered consciousness and blindness.
“This thing happened rapidly. Once they consume, depending on the quantity, the kidneys will pack up, the eyes will go, the brain will be damaged,” Ajaka said.
Suspect arrested
Methanol is a toxic form of alcohol that can cause severe poisoning, blindness, organ damage and death when consumed.
Police said they had arrested a suspect in connection with the incident, as authorities continue to investigate the source of the suspected contaminated drink.
Officials have yet to confirm through laboratory testing that methanol was responsible for the deaths.
