A recent outbreak in Nigeria has resulted in 48 deaths and 182 cases of illness after people consumed a locally produced alcoholic drink containing high levels of methanol. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) confirmed the deaths and illnesses linked to the toxic drink in Odigbo and Irele local government areas in Ondo State. Laboratory tests detected high concentrations of methanol and cannabis indica in samples of the suspected drink.
The affected communities include New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, and Oniparaga, with Odigbo Town and Araromi-Obu recording the highest number of casualties. As of September 17, 2026, 90 people had been admitted and discharged, 31 were receiving outpatient treatment, and six remained hospitalized. The outbreak's rapid progression has been described as alarming by health authorities.
NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye confirmed that gas chromatography tests on samples of the drink revealed high concentrations of methanol. Of 15 samples submitted for laboratory analysis, 11 tested positive for cannabis indica. Toxicology tests on laboratory mice recorded approximately 50% mortality across six samples, indicating the acute lethality of the substance.
Ondo State Commissioner for Health Banji Ajaka described the rapid progression of the illness as alarming. He explained that once people consume the toxic drink, their kidneys can shut down, eyesight can be lost, and brain damage can occur, depending on the quantity consumed. Methanol poisoning is known to cause severe damage to the optic nerve, kidneys, and central nervous system, often within hours of ingestion.
One survivor, 32-year-old Sola Adebayo, recounted losing his sight within hours of drinking the concoction. He told a local television channel from a hospital bed that he took two shots and went out on Friday, only to notice he could not see on Saturday. Methanol is toxic even in small quantities and can cause blindness or death before a victim is aware of the danger.
Law enforcement agencies have taken action, arresting 15 people in connection with the production and distribution of the suspected drink. NAFDAC urged the public to avoid consuming unregulated or locally brewed alcohol and to report any suspicious products to the agency. The agency's warning comes as a multi-agency operation in Kenya recovered counterfeit alcoholic beverages and arrested three suspects accused of manufacturing and selling fake alcohol.
The incident highlights the dangers of consuming unregulated alcohol and the need for increased vigilance. Authorities in Nigeria and Kenya are working to curb the production and distribution of counterfeit and toxic alcohol. NAFDAC and other agencies are urging the public to be cautious and report any suspicious activities to prevent further outbreaks.
Key points
- 48 people died and 182 fell ill after consuming methanol-laced alcohol in Nigeria.
- Laboratory tests detected high concentrations of methanol and cannabis indica in samples of the suspected drink.
- Authorities arrested 15 people in connection with the production and distribution of the suspected drink.
