AKURE, ONDO STATE — September 13, 2026
The Ondo State Government has confirmed that 29 people have died following suspected consumption of contaminated alcoholic beverages in communities within Odigbo Local Government Area.
State health authorities said a total of 60 suspected cases have been recorded, with three people receiving treatment in hospitals and another 27 remaining under medical observation.
Several Communities Affected
The cases have been reported mainly in Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele and Oniparaga.
According to the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Awolowo-Ajaka, approximately 95 percent of those affected are males between the ages of 16 and 55.
Authorities said affected individuals displayed symptoms including headaches, body pain, general weakness, visual disturbances, breathing difficulties and altered consciousness.
Some victims reportedly deteriorated rapidly after becoming ill.
Exact Cause Yet to Be Confirmed
Despite suspicions surrounding alcoholic substances consumed by some of the victims, health authorities have stressed that laboratory evidence has not yet established the exact cause of the deaths.
Investigators have collected 36 blood and urine samples, while samples of the suspected alcoholic beverages have also been submitted for toxicological examination.
The results are expected to help authorities determine what substance may have caused the illnesses and deaths.
Government Cracks Down on Unverified Alcohol
Following the deaths, the Ondo State Government has ordered an immediate crackdown on the sale and distribution of unverified alcoholic drinks and other potentially unsafe substances.
Scientific officers from the Ministry of Health have also been deployed to affected communities as investigations continue.
Residents have been warned against consuming alcoholic beverages, herbal mixtures and other substances from unlicensed or unverified sources.
Authorities are particularly urging members of the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as blurred vision, sudden weakness, breathing difficulties, confusion or loss of consciousness after consuming alcohol.
Investigation Continues
The incident has raised serious public-health concerns across Ondo State, with authorities working to determine the precise substance responsible and prevent additional casualties.
Residents have also been encouraged to cooperate with health and security officials and report suspicious production or distribution of unregulated alcoholic products.
Until laboratory investigations are completed, officials have cautioned against speculation about the precise substance responsible for the deaths.