Toxic alcohol crisis spreads, kills 8 in Ondo

The Ondo State Government says the health crisis linked to suspected toxic alcoholic substances has spread to Irele Local Government Area of the state, killing no fewer than eight people.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, disclosed this on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

Ajaka said eight people had died in Irele, bringing the total number of people affected across the areas to about 170.

Ajaka said: “As we are now, Irele Local Government Area is where we have a serious issue now. Our people are there and many people have died.

“About eight people have been recorded to have died as at yesterday’s night.

“So, all the people that have been affected altogether now is about 170, those that have been admitted and those that have died.”

Ajaka had earlier confirmed 29 deaths in communities within Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

He said many other affected residents were receiving treatment in hospitals following consumption of the suspected toxic alcoholic substances.

The commissioner reiterated that ethanol consumption was responsible for the health crisis, adding that government was taking proactive measures.

Ajaka said the measures were aimed at preventing the crisis from spreading to other local government areas across the state.

Alcohol poisoning: Ondo govt confirms 29 deaths, 60 cases

Ajaka said medical and health officials, alongside other stakeholders, had been deployed to communities where reports of the crisis emerged.

He added that response teams had moved to Irele to assess the situation and provide necessary medical interventions.

“We are always fast about it wherever and whenever we hear the report of the issue,” the commissioner added.

Ajaka urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid consuming substances suspected to be harmful to their health.

He said the Ondo State Government would continue its efforts to contain the crisis and prevent further deaths.

The government has also banned the sale of unverified alcoholic drinks across Ondo State.