48 Dead, 182 Affected in Nigeria Methanol Poisoning
48 Dead, 182 Affected in Nigeria Methanol Poisoning
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Key Points
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The outbreak was first reported in two communities in Odigbo on Sept. 5, with the initial death toll standing at about 20 before cases spread to Irele.
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Police identified the suspected brewer as Oloruntoba “Meko” Babatunde and said the beverage may have been distributed by as many as a dozen other people; substances suspected of containing methanol were recovered.
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The affected communities in Irele include Idogun and Gbogunron, which officials described as a flashpoint of the incident, and most alleged consumers were youths.
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The investigation includes the World Health Organization and Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, alongside other agencies.
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Ondo Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka warned that victims’ conditions can deteriorate rapidly: “Once they consume, depending on the quantity, the kidneys will pack up, the eyes will go, the brain will be damaged.”
At least 48 people have died and 182 others fell ill in southwestern Nigeria after drinking a locally made alcoholic beverage suspected to contain methanol, a toxic poison. Free Press Journal reports the outbreak began in Ondo State's Odigbo and Irele areas, with victims suffering rapid organ failure and blindness. Police have arrested 15 people, including the alleged producer.
Methanol is industrial alcohol that destroys the body within hours. Benin Web TV quoted Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka warning: "Once they consume, depending on the quantity, the kidneys will pack up, the eyes will go, the brain will be damaged." Authorities have shut down all local alcohol sales in affected areas and called in the World Health Organization to investigate.
How the Outbreak Spread Across Two Communities
The poisoning crisis started on September 5 in Odigbo with roughly 20 deaths. News Today Net reported cases then spread to the Irele area, hitting the communities of Idogun and Gbogunron hardest. Most victims were young people who consumed the drink at social gatherings. The total death toll climbed to 48 as more people arrived at hospitals.
Police Arrest Alleged Producer and 14 Others
Law enforcement identified the suspected brewer as Oloruntoba "Meko" Babatunde and arrested him along with 14 accomplices. My Twin Tiers reports police believe up to a dozen other people distributed the dangerous drink. Officers recovered substances they believe contained methanol from the suspects' locations. Charges are pending as the investigation continues.
Why Methanol Is Deadly and Spreads Silently
Methanol is cheap industrial alcohol that looks identical to drinking alcohol. WION News explains that poisoning victims face blindness, brain damage, and organ failure within hours. Poor communities sometimes consume unregulated brews to save money, not knowing what they contain. One drink can cause permanent disability or death depending on the amount consumed.
International Health Agencies Join Nigeria's Investigation
Nigeria's government activated major health agencies to stop further deaths. The World Health Organization and Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control are working together on the case. Benin Web TV reported authorities warned the public never to buy or drink unregulated or counterfeit alcohol. Officials say quick identification and treatment can save lives, but victims need medical care within hours of exposure.
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