Nigeria: Adulterated Drink Tragedy Leaves 48 Dead

According to authorities, the cases were mainly recorded in the Odigbo and Irele areas, where an estimated 182 people have been affected.

Ondo State Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka said the effects appeared rapidly in many of the victims.

According to the official, consuming the drink can cause kidney failure, loss of vision and brain damage, depending on the amount consumed.

Some patients have already been discharged, while dozens remain under medical care.

Police said 15 people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Among those detained is a person believed to have produced the suspected drinks and who is reportedly cooperating with investigators.

Authorities are still working to determine the exact composition of the beverage and how it was produced and distributed.

According to local media, the first death linked to the incident was recorded about two weeks ago.

The tragedy comes as Nigeria strengthens controls on alcoholic drinks sold in small packages.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control is implementing a nationwide ban on alcohol sold in sachets and small plastic containers, arguing that such products are easily accessible to children and young people.

Locally produced alcoholic drinks remain widely consumed in several parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural areas.