A mysterious illness in Ondo State has killed at least 30 people and sent more than 50 others to hospital, prompting an urgent investigation into suspected toxic alcoholic substances.
The outbreak has been reported across several communities in Odigbo Local Government Area, where health authorities have identified about 60 suspected cases.
Most of those affected are males between 16 and 55 years old, according to the Ondo State Government.
But officials are stressing one crucial point: the suspected alcoholic substances have not yet been scientifically confirmed as the cause of the deaths.
What Health Officials Know So Far
Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Awolowo Ajaka, said 29 deaths had been officially recorded at the time of his update, with the overall toll subsequently rising to 30.
Affected communities include:
- New Town
- Odole
- Okele
- Orita Odigbo
- Araromi-Obu
- Oniparaga, where another suspected case has been reported
Patients have presented with a range of serious symptoms, including headaches, body weakness, visual problems, breathing difficulties and altered consciousness.
Some patients reportedly deteriorated rapidly.
Toxic Exposure Suspected—But Not Confirmed
Authorities say the pattern of illness, combined with reports that some victims consumed alcoholic or herbal alcoholic products, has raised strong suspicion of toxic exposure.
However, Ajaka cautioned against declaring the substances responsible before laboratory testing is complete.
The government has collected 36 biological samples, including blood and urine, for analysis.
Investigators have also secured samples of the suspected alcoholic products found in the affected communities. Toxicological testing is being conducted with relevant regulatory agencies, including NAFDAC.
Until those tests identify a specific toxic substance, every case remains classified as suspected.
That distinction is important as investigators work to determine exactly what caused the deaths.
Emergency Response Intensifies
The state government has activated a coordinated emergency operation involving health officials, local government authorities, traditional leaders, security agencies and regulatory bodies.
Medical teams have been deployed to:
- Search actively for additional cases
- Investigate the outbreak
- Assess and treat affected patients
- Conduct verbal autopsies
- Refer seriously ill patients for further care
Authorities have also ordered the closure of suspected alcoholic outlets connected to the incident.
Meanwhile, security agencies are investigating people suspected of producing or distributing the substances. Several suspects have reportedly been taken into custody.
Ajaka warned that anyone found to have knowingly produced, adulterated or distributed poisonous products would face legal consequences.
Local Alcohol Sales Suspended
As a precaution, Odigbo Local Government authorities have imposed a temporary ban on the production and sale of locally brewed alcoholic and alcoholic-herbal beverages throughout the council area.
The measure is intended to reduce the possibility of further exposure while investigators work to establish the source of the outbreak.
Residents Urged Not to Wait for Severe Symptoms
Health officials are urging anyone who may have consumed a suspicious alcoholic product to take unusual symptoms seriously.
Warning signs include:
- Blurred or impaired vision
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Sudden weakness
- Confusion
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
Residents experiencing such symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Authorities have specifically warned people not to attempt home treatment or rely on traditional remedies or unverified medicines.
Government Appeals for Calm
The state government is also asking residents and community leaders to report unusual illnesses and sudden deaths as quickly as possible.
At the same time, officials have urged the public and media to avoid circulating unverified photographs, names or accusations involving alleged victims and suspects.
The investigation remains active, with government officials working alongside national and international partners to identify the substance involved and prevent additional deaths.
For now, toxic exposure linked to an alcoholic product remains the leading suspicion—not a confirmed diagnosis. The laboratory results will ultimately determine what caused the deadly outbreak.
