Herbal Drink Consumption: 60 People Still in Hospital — Ondo Commissioner

At least 60 people are still receiving treatment in hospitals following the consumption of suspected poisonous herbal drinks in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, disclosed this on Sunday while addressing journalists in Akure, the state capital.

The incident has so far resulted in the deaths of at least 29 residents from communities affected by the suspected poisoning.

Ajaka said the affected communities include Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele and Oniparaga.

According to the commissioner, about 95 per cent of those affected were males between the ages of 16 and 55.

He explained that many of the victims developed severe symptoms, including intense headaches, body pains, extreme weakness, impaired vision, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness.

Some victims reportedly experienced rapid deterioration, with several deaths occurring within hours of exposure.

Ajaka said the clinical symptoms and pattern of the cases strongly suggested exposure to a poisonous alcoholic brew, although laboratory investigations were still underway to establish the exact substance responsible.

He disclosed that 36 blood and urine samples, alongside samples of the confiscated beverages, had been submitted for urgent toxicological examination.

The commissioner warned residents against consuming unverified or unlicensed alcoholic drinks, particularly products whose ingredients and production processes are unknown.

He also urged community leaders to immediately report unusual illnesses, sudden deaths or other suspicious health incidents in their communities.

Ajaka advised anyone who develops blurred vision, breathing difficulties, confusion or other unusual symptoms after consuming alcohol to seek medical attention immediately.

The state government is continuing to monitor the situation as health officials work to establish the precise cause of the deaths and hospitalisations.

The incident has raised renewed concerns over the production and consumption of unregulated alcoholic and herbal drinks, particularly in rural communities where such products may be widely available.

Authorities are expected to intensify efforts to identify the source of the suspected poisonous drink and prevent further consumption while laboratory results are awaited.

The commissioner urged residents to exercise caution and avoid products that have not been properly approved or certified for consumption.