Suspected Methanol Poisoning Death Toll in Ondo Rises to 49
Authorities in Nigeria’s Ondo state suspect methanol poisoning from locally brewed alcohol caused 49 deaths after two traditional ceremonies.
Akure, Nigeria. The death toll from suspected methanol poisoning linked to a locally brewed alcoholic drink in Ondo state has risen to 49, health commissioner Banji Ajaka said.
The health emergency was first reported on September 5, when authorities said 29 people had died within the first week after consuming the alcohol.
Investigation into locally brewed drink
Authorities suspect the deaths were caused by methanol poisoning from a locally brewed gin known as “Monkey Tail”. The incident was traced to two traditional ceremonies in Odigbo district, where guests consumed a locally produced alcoholic drink.
Ajaka said the pattern of illness and reported exposure history had raised “strong epidemiological suspicion” of a probable toxic alcoholic substance, although laboratory evidence had not yet been obtained.
Reported symptoms
Victims reported headaches, body pain, breathing difficulties, altered consciousness and blindness, Ajaka said.
He said the effects developed rapidly after consumption and could include kidney failure, loss of sight and brain damage, depending on the quantity consumed.
Police action
Police said they had arrested a suspect in connection with the case.
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