Methanol, Cannabis Found in Killer Drinks as Ondo Toll Hits 48

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed that high concentrations of methanol and Cannabis indica were present in locally prepared alcoholic and herbal concoctions blamed for a devastating outbreak of illness and death in Ondo State.

In a press release dated 18 September 2026 and signed by Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency reported that as of 17 September, 182 people had fallen ill and 48 had died after consuming the unregulated drinks.

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Five survivors were left totally blind and two partially blind. The figures remain subject to ongoing verification.

The outbreak, first noticed in early September, centred on Odigbo Local Government Area. Communities hit include New Town, Odole, Okele, Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu and Oniparaga, with the heaviest impact in Odigbo Town and Araromi-Obu. Cases later appeared in neighbouring Irele Local Government Area.

Of the 182 recorded cases, 90 patients were admitted to hospital and later discharged, 31 were treated as outpatients and six remained hospitalised at the time of the update. Victims typically developed headache, generalised body weakness and pain, visual disturbances, difficulty breathing and altered consciousness. Some deteriorated rapidly.

NAFDAC collected 15 unlabelled samples of the suspected concoctions for testing. Acute oral toxicity studies, gas chromatography and microbiological examination produced “gravely concerning” results: 11 of the 15 samples tested positive for Cannabis indica, while gas chromatography confirmed high concentrations of methanol—a toxic alcohol that can cause blindness, organ failure and death. In laboratory mice, six of the samples produced roughly 50 per cent mortality, underscoring the drinks’ lethal potential. Confirmatory tests to quantify exact methanol levels and identify any other toxins are continuing.

Fifteen people have been arrested in connection with the suspected production, sale and distribution of the beverages. Surveillance, case management and risk-control measures remain active across the affected communities in coordination with state public-health authorities.

Local reports have linked the poisonings to a popular herbal alcoholic mixture commonly known as “Monkey Tail,” which is widely consumed in rural areas because it is cheap and readily available. Residents and traders have described both “safe” and adulterated versions circulating in the area. Ondo State Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka earlier noted the rapid progression of symptoms, warning that kidneys, eyes and brain can fail quickly depending on the quantity consumed.

NAFDAC issued a strong public warning against buying or drinking any unlicensed, unregistered or locally prepared alcoholic or herbal concoctions of unknown composition. Anyone who develops sudden visual problems, severe headache, breathing difficulty or altered consciousness after consuming such substances is urged to seek immediate medical attention.

The agency expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that every necessary regulatory action is being pursued. Further updates will follow as confirmatory laboratory results and investigations progress.