29 Dead, 60 Cases Recorded in Ondo Suspected Poisoning Outbreak

Twenty-nine people have died in an incident involving suspected poisoning in Ondo State, with health officials recording 60 suspected cases across several communities in Odigbo Local Government Area.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, confirmed the latest figures during an update on the situation, saying three affected persons were receiving hospital treatment while 27 others remained under medical observation.

The incident has raised serious public health concerns in Odigbo, Araromi-Obu and neighbouring communities after residents reportedly consumed substances believed to be alcoholic herbal mixtures.

Authorities have yet to establish the precise cause of the deaths. Although the circumstances have led investigators to suspect exposure to a toxic alcoholic substance, officials say laboratory evidence is required before a definitive conclusion can be reached.

The first reports from the affected communities indicated that 24 people had died. The figure later climbed to 27 before the latest government update confirmed 29 deaths.

Cases have been reported mainly in Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele and Oniparaga.

According to the health authorities, affected residents presented symptoms ranging from headaches and body pain to weakness, visual disturbances, breathing difficulties and altered consciousness.

Some patients reportedly deteriorated rapidly after developing symptoms, prompting health officials to intensify surveillance and investigation.

The state government has collected 36 blood and urine samples for laboratory analysis. Samples of substances suspected to have been consumed by victims have also been submitted for toxicological testing.

The investigation involves health authorities, regulatory agencies and security personnel. Several suspects have reportedly been detained while officials trace the source and distribution of the suspected substances.

The government has responded by imposing a temporary ban on the production and sale of locally brewed alcoholic drinks and alcoholic herbal beverages within the affected local government area.

The restriction comes amid concerns that continued consumption of unregulated products could expose more residents to potential harm before investigators determine what caused the illnesses.

Ajaka called on residents to avoid alcoholic products sold by unlicensed producers. He also urged people who develop symptoms such as blurred vision, breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion or loss of consciousness after consuming alcohol to seek urgent medical care.

Community leaders have also been encouraged to report unusual illnesses and sudden deaths to health authorities without delay.

The government said its response would continue until investigators establish the cause of the incident. Officials are also working with national and international partners during the investigation.

The rising death toll has heightened concern across affected communities, but authorities have maintained that the suspected alcoholic substances cannot yet be scientifically identified as the cause of death.

Further laboratory and toxicological findings are expected to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatalities.