The death toll from the consumption of suspected toxic alcoholic drinks and herbal concoctions in Ondo State has risen to 38, with more than 100 persons hospitalised in a spreading public health crisis.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, confirmed the development in an interview with The Nation last night in Akure.
According to the Commissioner, nine additional deaths were recorded between Friday and Sunday in Irele Local Government Area, where the outbreak was first reported. This is in addition to the 29 deaths earlier confirmed by the government.
Nine Fresh Deaths In Irele
Ajaka said the nine new fatalities pushed the total number of confirmed deaths to 38. He disclosed that the victims died after consuming locally brewed alcoholic drinks and the popular herbal mixture known as “Monkey Tail”.
“Between Friday and Sunday, nine deaths were recorded in Irele Local Government Area, in addition to the deaths (29) we already had on the ground. Now, it is making a total of 38, and we have 100 persons hospitalised,” he said.
Crisis Spreads, Hospitals Overwhelmed
The outbreak, initially concentrated in Irele, has now extended to Odigbo Local Government Area and neighbouring communities. Health facilities in the affected areas are reportedly overwhelmed as more victims are rushed in with symptoms of poisoning.
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The development has triggered widespread panic among residents, with many deserting local drinking joints and calling on government to identify and shut down sources of the killer drinks.
Govt Investigates, Issues Fresh Warning
Ajaka noted that the government is still investigating reports of other unreported deaths in villages around the affected LGAs, indicating that the casualty figure may rise.
“We are still investigating other deaths being recorded in neighbouring villages and communities,” he added.
The state government has reiterated its warning to residents to desist from consuming unverified alcoholic beverages and herbal concoctions, while assuring that efforts are underway to trace, test and eliminate the toxic batches in circulation.
