24 youths die from suspected poisoning in Ondo community

At least 24 people, mostly youths, have died from suspected poisoning in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, according to Daily Post Nigeria. The deaths, which occurred over the weekend across Odigbo and Araromi-Obu communities, have been linked to the consumption of sachet concoctions and locally brewed alcoholic drinks. Following the incident, the local government imposed an immediate ban on the sale and consumption of locally produced alcoholic beverages as health officials work to determine the exact cause. Several other victims are currently receiving hospital treatment, with medical personnel working to stabilise those affected.

Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, confirmed the incident and said investigations were underway, though he did not disclose the specific substance suspected to have caused the deaths. He said the government was taking the matter seriously and would release further details once the probe concluded.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Dr Ayodele Adeji, said early findings pointed to possible methanol contamination, though laboratory analysis of collected samples was still ongoing. Odigbo Local Government Chairman, Taiwo Adegoroye, said preliminary investigations suggested a link between the deaths and consumption of the substances, but stressed that conclusive findings were still awaited from health authorities.