Nearly 50 fatalities in Nigeria linked to suspected methanol-laced alcohol consumption > 월드뉴스

At least 48 people have died in southern Nigeria after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic drink suspected to contain methanol. Approximately 100 others are currently receiving treatment for related health issues, according to officials. The health crisis has been reported in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas of Ondo state. Banji Ajaka, the state's commissioner for health, indicated that a total of 182 individuals are believed to have been affected by this incident.

One victim, 32-year-old Sola Adebayo, recounted his experience to a local news channel, stating that after taking two shots of the drink, he lost his vision by the following day. The consumption of locally made alcohol is prevalent in Nigeria, particularly in rural regions where it is more affordable and less regulated. Ajaka emphasized the rapid onset of adverse effects, explaining that the severity depends on the quantity consumed, leading to kidney failure, vision loss, and brain damage.

In response to the situation, Ondo state police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh announced that 15 individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident. Among those detained is a person allegedly involved in producing substances suspected to contain methanol, who is currently cooperating with police investigations. Local residents suspect that a widely consumed herbal drink known as "Monkey Tail" may have been mixed with methanol, contributing to the fatalities.

A trader in Odigbo, who requested anonymity due to concerns about arrest, described two versions of Monkey Tail: one that is safe and another that poses health risks. Reports indicate that the first death linked to this incident occurred nearly two weeks prior to the latest updates. In light of the ongoing crisis, Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has implemented a nationwide ban on the sale of alcohol in sachets and small plastic containers, citing their accessibility to children and young individuals.