NAFDAC Confirms 48 Deaths, 182 Critical Cases in Ondo Methanol Poisoning Tragedy

AKURE, NIGERIA — The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed that 48 people have died while 182 others are critically ill following the consumption of suspected toxic locally produced alcoholic drinks and herbal concoctions in parts of Ondo State, describing the outbreak as one of the country’s deadliest cases of methanol poisoning in recent years.

The agency disclosed that five victims became completely blind, while two others suffered partial blindness after consuming the suspected products. Preliminary laboratory analysis detected high concentrations of methanol in samples collected from the affected drinks, strengthening suspicions that toxic contamination was responsible for the deaths and severe illnesses.

According to NAFDAC, the poisonous products were sold as locally made alcoholic beverages and herbal mixtures in affected communities. The regulator warned the public against consuming unregistered or unverified locally produced drinks, urging residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as blurred vision, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain or sudden loss of consciousness after drinking suspicious alcohol.

As part of its enforcement operation, the agency said 15 people have been arrested over the suspected production, distribution and sale of the toxic concoctions. The suspects are expected to face further investigation as authorities work to determine the source of the contaminated products and identify everyone involved in the supply chain.

Health officials say methanol poisoning is particularly dangerous because its early symptoms often resemble ordinary alcohol intoxication, delaying treatment until irreversible damage has occurred. Once metabolized, methanol can attack the optic nerve and central nervous system, leading to permanent blindness, organ failure and death if urgent medical intervention is not provided.

NAFDAC added that further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations are ongoing to establish the full extent of the outbreak and prevent additional casualties. The agency said it is working with state health authorities and law enforcement agencies to remove the suspected products from circulation and protect affected communities.

The tragedy has renewed concerns over the growing circulation of unregulated alcoholic beverages and herbal mixtures across Nigeria, where informal production often operates outside established safety standards. Public health experts say stronger regulation, consumer awareness and stricter enforcement will be essential to preventing similar outbreaks in the future.