At least 48 individuals have died and approximately 100 others are currently receiving medical treatment in southern Nigeria, following the consumption of a locally brewed alcoholic concoction. Officials stated on Thursday that the drink is suspected to contain methanol.
Banji Ajaka, Ondo state's commissioner for health, reported that cases have emerged in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas. A total of 182 people are believed to have been affected, with some hospitalised.
One individual, 32-year-old Sola Adebayo, told local TVC News from a hospital bed that he experienced vision loss after consuming the drink. Commissioner Ajaka informed The Associated Press that the effects of the drink can be rapid, potentially leading to kidney failure, blindness, and brain damage.
Ondo state police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh confirmed that 15 people have been arrested in connection with the incident. This includes one person allegedly involved in the production of substances suspected to contain methanol, who is assisting police with investigations.
Locals have suggested to the AP that a popular herbal drink with high alcohol content, known as "Monkey Tail," may have been mixed with methanol. A trader in Odigbo, speaking anonymously, mentioned there are both safe and unsafe versions of Monkey Tail.
Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control is now enforcing a nationwide ban on alcohol sold in sachets and small plastic containers, citing their accessibility to children and young people.