Herbal Drinks: Ondo Death Toll Rises to 27 as Govt Begins Crackdown

The death toll from the suspected consumption of herbal drinks and locally produced alcoholic concoctions in Ondo State has reportedly risen to 27, as the state government intensifies measures to prevent further casualties.

The deaths occurred in communities within Odigbo Local Government Area, including Araromi-Obu and Odigbo town, where residents reportedly consumed a locally produced substance before some became unconscious and subsequently died.

The state government had initially confirmed 24 deaths, comprising eight victims from Araromi-Obu and 16 from Odigbo town. However, subsequent reports indicated that additional deaths had occurred, although authorities were still compiling and verifying the casualty figures.

The exact cause of the deaths has not been established. Medical and toxicological examinations are being conducted to determine whether the substances consumed were responsible for the fatalities.

The Ondo State Government has warned residents against consuming unapproved herbal drinks, concoctions and other substances that have not been certified safe for human consumption.

Authorities have also moved against producers, sellers and distributors of uncertified substances, warning that anyone found involved in practices that endanger public health could face sanctions.

As part of the immediate response, the local government placed a ban on the sale and consumption of locally brewed alcoholic drinks in the affected area.

Health officials have collected samples of suspected substances for laboratory analysis, while blood and urine samples from affected patients are also being examined.

The police are working with the Ministry of Health and local government authorities to gather evidence and establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The development has caused concern among residents, with some youths staging protests and demanding urgent government intervention.

The traditional ruler of Odigbo, Oba Rufus Akinrinmade, appealed for calm while authorities continue their investigation.

Government officials have urged residents not to speculate about the cause of the deaths until laboratory and medical examinations are completed.

The state government has also called on residents to obtain medicines and consumable products only from authorised outlets and to report suspicious production or distribution of unapproved substances.

The investigation is expected to determine the substance involved, establish the precise cause of death and guide further action against those responsible, if wrongdoing is confirmed.