Nigeria: at least 48 dead after suspected methanol poisoning

The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka, stated that preliminary analyses, including urine samples taken from victims, pointed investigations towards methanol exposure. Approximately 100 people were still receiving treatment, according to the report by the Associated Press.

The crisis, initially concentrated in communities within the Odigbo area, later spread to Irele. Patients reported severe symptoms, including loss of vision, while health services have intensified care and monitoring in the affected localities.

The Ondo State police have arrested 15 individuals as part of the investigation. Among those detained is a man suspected of being involved in the production of a substance that may contain methanol. Authorities have yet to determine the exact source of the contaminating product.

The state government had previously banned the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages and preparations whose origin or regulatory status could not be verified. Health services, police, and several public agencies are participating in control and tracing operations.

One man suspected of producing the substance is among those arrested. In total, 15 individuals have been detained, and the recovered samples have been sent for forensic analysis.