48 Dead in Nigeria After Drinking Suspected Methanol-Contaminated Alcohol
A suspected methanol-contaminated local drink has killed at least 48 people in Ondo State, with dozens more receiving treatment.
- 48 people have died.
- 182 people are affected.
- 15 suspects are in custody.
At least 48 people have died in southern Nigeria after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic drink suspected of containing dangerous levels of methanol, authorities say.
About 100 others are receiving medical treatment, while health officials estimate that 182 people have been affected in total.
The outbreak has been reported in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas of Ondo State. Investigators suspect that the alcoholic drink consumed by the victims was contaminated with methanol, a highly toxic substance.
Local residents have identified the drink as a popular herbal brew known as “Monkey Tail”. Traders say there are two versions of the drink, with one regarded as safe and the other considered dangerous.
Survivors have described experiencing severe symptoms soon after consuming the drink. One survivor, 32-year-old Sola Adebayo, told TVC News that he began losing his sight the day after drinking it.
